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## History of Art and Architecture ### C. The Federal Style The Federal Style takes its name from the American history. This historical period (1783-1815) was of extreme importance for the establishment of the United States; it saw the end of the revolution, the creation of Articles of Confederati...

## History of Art and Architecture ### C. The Federal Style The Federal Style takes its name from the American history. This historical period (1783-1815) was of extreme importance for the establishment of the United States; it saw the end of the revolution, the creation of Articles of Confederation, and finally the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights. It followed a stricter version of neoclassicism. The stylistic characteristics of its domestic architecture include: a low pitched or flat roof that was usually concealed behind a balustrade; moldings of a low relief and delicate ornamentation. When a classical order is present (i.e. doric, ionic, etc.) the capital is diminutive and the columns are slender. Emphasis is placed on the central entrance, which is often set apart with a small, one story portico, a crowning fan-light and narrow sidelights. Other ornamentation is primarily based on curved lines, as well as a Palladian window set within a recessed wall arch, and circular or elliptical windows. ### 1. Thomas Jefferson American founding father, and principal author of The Declaration of Independence, statesman and the third president, he had great influence in the architecture of the period. Jefferson was involved in the design and construction of the US Capitol Building, when President (1801-9), as well as urban planning in Washington DC. His enthusiasm for neoclassical art had a significant influence on the development of nineteenth century architecture in America. ### 2. Architectural Landmarks - **The Rotunda at the University of Virginia** housed the library, while in the pavilions, representing individual disciplines, professors lived and held their classes. Each pavilion demonstrated the correct use of a different Roman order or some variant of it, the campus thus keeping before the students' eyes the full spectrum of Classical design. - **US Capitol Building** The neoclassic domes has come to symbolize democracy.