Perspective, perfected

How many planes does the eye actually perceive? How can we break down a complex scene into easy-to-digest segments? Hans Vredeman de Vries addressed his Perspective to ‘all lovers of the arts who may wish to apply themselves … with greater pleasure and less pain’. Embracing the full potential of copperplate engravings, de Vries organised his subjects in an increasing level of complexity, depicting imaginary architectural settings – abstract though truthful structures.

Hans Vredeman de Vries, Perspective, Leiden, 1604-5. Vet. B2 b.

• A5 sketchbook designed specially for the Exhibition Thinking 3D: from Leonardo to present
• Printed in the UK