Façade of University of Salamanca. 16 x 6 x 25 cm.

Description

Model of the façade of the University of Salamanca, made of marble reconstituted with resin.

Measurements: 16 x 6 x 25 cm.

Façade of the University of Salamanca. Renaissance architecture has in the city of Salamanca one of its main focal points of artistic activity, in which highly trained and influential artists worked. Among the buildings that were built or refurbished during the 16th century, the University stands out for its spectacular façade, which shows the ornamental character of the new style, which some call Plateresque.

It was conceived as a great hanging altarpiece or tapestry that in no way reflects the interior structure of the building. It consists of three profusely decorated sections separated by intermediate friezes and topped by a cresting with flambeaux. The decoration has been arranged with the viewer’s perception in mind, so that as one ascends the volume of the reliefs increases to compensate for the visual distance.

The iconographic programme proclaims the pontifical and ecclesiastical origins of this university, its status as the home of wisdom, virtue, harmony and science, as well as the support of the kings and the emperor, represented in the various medallions.