Vintage Architectural Models

A Superb and rare collection of Architectural models, these were made by apprentices or master craftsman to apply for a title by their respective guild.
In France these craftsmen were known as the 'Compagnons du Devoir'. They would start their careers by travelling around France, sometimes through Europe, and taking temporary places in workshops throughout the country. Each time they would learn new things and materialise these in ever more complex scale models. Crucial in their training was the understanding of proportion. This science was taken very seriously and based on centuries of transcriptions going back as far as the Egyptians.
Carpenters would use this knowledge in their designs and typically make studies of roof models in various shapes and sizes. Before they could end their educational travels and settle down in a city they were obliged to finally deliver a masterpiece or Piece de Maitrise. And if approved they got the right to open their own shop.
These early 19th century softwood models are quite elaborate and would have been from an advanced student. Because of the geometric lines and proportions it has a modern abstract feel to it and in the meantime its warm patina shows its history. C1920
Height, width and depth taken from the highest deepest of widest part of all sculptures.