Fores et Fenestrae: A Computational Study of Doors and Windows in Roman Domestic Space

Fores et Fenestrae explores Roman doors and windows' role in daily life, analyzing 1855 structures across eight towns in imperial Italy. Using a computational approach, the study examines the database and generates 3D models to observe their impact on privacy, security, and light in domestic spaces. The work highlights the need for a deeper understanding of these structures, which have been underestimated due to preservation challenges and the use of perishable materials.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 296 pages
\n Publication date: 10 June 2021
\n Publisher: Archaeopress
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Fores et Fenestrae is a groundbreaking study that delves into the intricate world of Roman doors and windows, shedding light on their pivotal role in daily life. These architectural elements serve as the vital connections between rooms and houses, linking them to the outside world. Beyond their functional purpose, doors and windows play a significant role in shaping privacy, security, and the overall ambiance of domestic spaces.

However, until recently, the significance of these structures in shaping Roman private dwellings has been vastly underrated. This underestimation stems primarily from the challenges associated with their study. The low level of preservation of walls, coupled with the widespread use of perishable and recyclable materials, often hinders a comprehensive and accurate assessment of these architectural elements.

To overcome these obstacles, the author adopted a computational approach. The core of the research revolves around the analysis of a comprehensive database, which encompasses a survey of 1855 doors and windows across eight towns of Roman imperial Italy. The collected information has been meticulously organized into nine tables, subjected to statistical analyses to unravel the hidden patterns and insights.

In addition to the database analysis, the author has created three remarkable 3D models that simulate natural materials and light conditions. These models serve as a powerful tool to observe the role of doors and windows in their respective contexts. By integrating these models with literary, epigraphic, and visual sources, as well as the analysis of archaeological sources, the author aims to provide a holistic understanding of the significance of doors and windows in Roman private dwellings.

The study is structured into three distinct sections. The first section serves as an introduction, providing a methodological framework and critically examining previous scholarship on the topic. It highlights the tendency to overlook or underestimate the role of doors and windows in Roman architecture. The second section collects a diverse range of complementary sources, including literary, epigraphic, and visual materials, to enhance our comprehension of the statistical analyses and to integrate the 3D models seamlessly. These sources provide valuable insights into the social, cultural, and architectural aspects of Roman doors and windows.

The third and central section constitutes the core of the analysis. It delves deep into the architectural, functional, and symbolic aspects of Roman doors and windows. The author explores the various types of doors and windows, their materials, construction techniques, and their placement within buildings. They also examine the relationship between doors and windows and other architectural elements, such as walls, ceilings, and floors.

Furthermore, the study sheds light on the practical implications of doors and windows in Roman private dwellings. It explores how they facilitated movement, ventilation, and lighting, as well as their role in regulating temperature and humidity. The author also discusses the symbolic significance of doors and windows, including their association with entrances, exits, and the boundary between the private and public realms.

In conclusion, Fores et Fenestrae is a groundbreaking work that revolutionizes our understanding of Roman doors and windows. Through a meticulous computational approach and a comprehensive analysis of diverse sources, the author has unveiled the previously underestimated role of these architectural elements in shaping Roman private dwellings. This study not only enhances our knowledge of Roman architecture but also provides valuable insights into the broader cultural and social dynamics of the Roman world.

\n Weight: 1068g\n
Dimension: 205 x 289 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789696172\n \n