Pavillon Sully, Louvre

Pavillon Sully is a portion of the Louvre Museum in Paris. Construction began in 1624 and was completed in 1654.

In the picture above, what do you see that went right?

Try to get as many items as you can before viewing the answers below.

• The building is repeatedly subdivided into sections until human-scale elements are achieved.
• Specifically, the whole is broken into an odd number of sub-masses (3 shown), withe the center sub-mass further divided into an odd number of bays (5).
• The whole is visually balanced (achieved through symmetry).
• Aligned horizontal mouldings tie sub-masses together.
• Focal points creates focus in the middle sub-mass.
• Openings are vertical rectangles.
• All sub-masses have a top (either a roof or a balustrade).
• Corners are emphasized.
• Load bearing components align vertically and extend up through the balustrade piers.
• Openings align vertically and extend up through the balusters.
• Superimposed columns are the same, or a narrower, order.
• Correct Corinthian proportions and entablature. Modillions are centered above columns.
• Round columns have entasis (tapering).
• Even number of columns and an odd number of openings.
• Circular openings have a smaller width than the rectangular openings below them.
• Consistent arch shape (all round).