Day 59 - Architecture of the Enlightenment

During the Enlightenment a revival of interest in Greece and Rome gave rise to the artistic movement during the late 18th century known as Neoclassicism.  Neoclassicism incorporated the subjects, themes and styles of ancient Greek and Roman art culturally, artistically, and in architectural, which grew out of the response against Rococo. The more streamlined and classical lines appealed to those who felt the Rococo style was too ostentatious and theatrical. 

Palladian homes were built throughout Europe and America.  Thomas Jefferson led the movement to adopt the Neoclassical style of architecture in America.  His Palladian home built in Charlottesville, Virginia in 1770-1806 with rotunda recalls the Chiswick home near London, England built by Richard Boyle and William Kent in 1725.  The simple lines and unadorned surfaces of the exterior of the Chiswick home is a variation on theVilla Rotunda.

Villa Capra "La Rotonda" in Vicenza, begun in 1567

Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello,  built of local materials
in Charlottesville, Virginia, 1770-1806

Chiswick House and Ilford Manor, near London, England.
Built by Richard Boyle and William Kent, starting in 1725

References:

1. Gardner's Art Through the Ages, A Global History, 13th ed., by Fred S. Kleiner - Chapters 29
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Capra_%22La_Rotonda%22  
3. http://artmundus.wordpress.com/2010/06/10/chiswick-house-and-iford-manor/
4. http://crapo.senate.gov/services/images/Monticello.jpg