34 Quotes by Vitruvius

Proportion is that agreeable harmony between the several parts of a building, which is the result of a just and regular agreement of them with each other; the height to the width, this to the length, and each of these to the whole.

Wind is a floating wave of air, whose undulation continually varies.

For an object under the eye will appear very different from the same object placed above it; in an inclosed space, very different from the same in an open space.

Quicksilver is used for many purposes; without it, neither silver nor brass can be properly gilt.

Bodies which contain a greater proportion of water than is necessary to balance the other elements, are speedily corrupted, and lose their virtues and properties.

Architecture is a science arising out of many other sciences, and adorned with much and varied learning; by the help of which a judgment is formed of those works which are the result of other arts.

Perhaps, to the uninformed, it may appear unaccountable that a man should be able to retain in his memory such a variety of learning; but the close alliance with each other, of the different branches of science, will explain the difficulty.

But I, Caesar, have not sought to amass wealth by the practice of my art, having been rather contented with a small fortune and reputation, than desirous of abundance accompanied by a want of reputation.

The thickness of the walls should be sufficient for two armed men to pass each other with ease.