Cours d’architecture

work by Blondel

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July 19, 2026

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Jacques-François Blondel was an influential architect and educator in 18th-century France. He is best known for his contributions to architectural theory and his teaching, which shaped the taste of his era. Blondel established one of the first schools dedicated to teaching architecture in Paris.

His significant written work, the monumental Cours d'architecture (1771–77), compiled his lectures and plans. This multi-volume work, completed by Pierre Patte, served as a comprehensive guide to architectural principles and practices. Blondel's teachings and writings emphasized an ideal of taste that aligned with the rationalist philosophy of the Enlightenment.1

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Jacques-François Blondel
…and plans in the monumental Cours d’architecture (1771–77; “Architecture Course”); the 12-volume work was completed (and its 6 volumes of plates combined into 3 volumes) by the French architect, writer, and engraver Pierre Patte.
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…and plans in the monumental Cours d’architecture (1771–77; “Architecture Course”); the 12-volume work was completed (and its 6 volumes of plates combined into 3 volumes) by the French architect, writer, and engraver Pierre Patte.
Read More