Thomas Smith and Reading as a 'Trigger for Action'

Smith’s keen interest in the Roman author Vitruvius’ Ten books on architecture is evident in the fact that no fewer than four editions of the work, all in different languages, appear in his library inventory (here is a Latin version). Rediscovered during the Renaissance, Vitruvius' work may have proved particularly relevant for Smith in relation to his reading of the Roman law texts commissioned by the Emperor Justinian (see previous images). Smith’s sketches of buildings in the margins of the Infortiatum where architecture is discussed reflect his fascination with Roman building practices and their laws concerning the legal rights and duties of property owners. Recent research has argued that Justinian legal precepts had a direct influence on Smith’s subsequent design of his residence at Hill Hall, Essex. This is now considered to be one of the first Renaissance houses to have been built in England.

Author: Vitruvius Pollio
Title: De architectura libri decem [Ten books on architecture] (Venice, 1567)
Shelfmark: F.2.24 (catalogue record)

F.2.24