Thomas Jefferson, Architect

Palladian Models, Democratic Principles, and the Conflict of Ideals

DeWitt Lloyd, Piper Corey, Neil Erik H., Burns Howard, Beltramini Guido, Guy Wilson Richard, Bergdoll Barry, Nelson Louis P., Wilson Mabel O.

Renowned as a politician and statesman, Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was also one of the premier architects of the early United States. Adept at reworking Renaissance – particularly Palladian – and Enlightenment ideals to the needs of the new republic, Jefferson completed visionary building projects such as his two homes, Monticello and Poplar Forest; the Capitol building in Richmond; and the University of Virginia campus. Featuring a wealth of archival images, including models, paintings, drawings, and prints, this volume presents compelling essays that engage broad themes of history, ethics, philosophy, classicism, neoclassicism, and social sciences while investigating various aspects of Jefferson's works, design principles, and complex character.

In addition to a thorough introduction to Jefferson's career as an architect, the book provides insight into his sources of inspiration and a nuanced take on the contradictions between his ideas about liberty and his embrace of slavery, most poignantly reflected in his plan for the academical village at the University of Virginia, which was carefully designed to keep enslaved workers both invisible and accessible. "Thomas Jefferson, Architect" offers fresh perspectives on Jefferson's architectural legacy, which has shaped the political and social landscape of the nation and influenced countless American architects since his time.

About the Author

Lloyd DeWitt is the chief curator and Irene Leache Curator of European Art.

Corey Piper is Brock Curator of American Art, both at the Chrysler Museum of Art.

Guido Beltramini is director of the Centro Internazionale di Studi Architettura Andrea Palladio and the Palladio Museum.

Barry Bergdoll is Meyer Schapiro Professor of Art History at Columbia University.

Howard Burns is president of the Scientific Committee of the Centro Internazionale di Studi Architettura Andrea Palladio.

Erik H. Neil is director of the Chrysler Museum of Art. Louis P. Nelson serves as professor of architectural history and vice provost for academic outreach at the University of Virginia.

Mabel O. Wilson is professor of architectural design and history/theory at Columbia University and senior fellow with the Columbia University Institute for Research in African American Studies.

Richard Guy Wilson serves as Commonwealth Professor, Architectural History at the University of Virginia School of Architecture.

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