Il disegno come laboratorio interdisciplinare della storia dell'architettura

The field of architectural history, shaped by a growing interest in interdisciplinary perspectives, has seen a recent multiplication of viewpoints and methodological tools. Within this context, this paper reflects on the enduring significance of one of the discipline’s most traditional subjects: the architectural drawing. As is well known, drawing has always played a central role in analyzing the design process behind architectural projects. Its richness and intrinsic complexity can reveal the project’s intent – but not only that. With increasingly sophisticated tools, it is now possible to reconstruct the genesis and development of a drawing – dating its support, identifying the instruments used, and tracing its different execution phases – while also providing valuable clues regarding its attribution. Architectural drawings are precious documents that bring together multiple narratives: those of the author, whether presumed or real; of the building depicted on the sheet; of representational techniques; and today, of the evolving tools of analysis, conservation, and preservation. The drawing – specifically the original, not its reproduction – stands as a truly interdisciplinary object of study. It offers a unique window into the various phases of the design process, providing access to the architect’s mind at the pivotal creative moment when an idea was first conceived and then given tangible form.