Jean de Rouen architect. The dome as reason and science in devotional construction

Abstract

The covering of devotional space with the dome option is a strategy of the architectural design affirmed in Coimbra and Portugal with the arrival of Jean de Rouen. A theme originated from classical culture and always associated with the centralization of plans, it would be up to Jean de Rouen to introduce it to the altarpiece plasticity that organizes the devotional world of the Christian church of the 16th century. But, at the same time that the cosmic dimension contained there captures the scientific nature of discourse, it also goes beyond the “two-dimensional” boundary of the altarpiece as well. Quickly, the solution of the dome would integrate a harmonic set between the created space and the forms; and between the elements of architecture, ornament and decoration. With particular focus on the central region of Portugal and the area of activity of Jean de Rouen, the new chapels to be built would often adopt a system of coverage from which it is possible to recognized the French artist. It also identifies an erudite character based on his presumable formation in Normandy and in all the contributions provided by the Italian Renaissance and the architectural treatises. More than a sculptor, Jean de Rouen is perhaps more concerned with the definition of space and with issues related to proportion and balance in the use of such space.