Vitruvius Quotes & Sayings (Page 2)

“Economy consists in a due and proper application of the means afforded according to the ability of the employer and the situation chosen; care being taken that the expenditure is prudently conducted.”

“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.”

“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.”

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

“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.”

“Dimension regulated the general scale of the work, so that the parts may all tell and be effective.”

“Marble is not alike in all countries.”

“Care should be taken that all buildings are well lighted: in those of the country this point is easily accomplished, because the wall of a neighbour is not likely to interfere with the light.”

“Harmony is an obscure and difficult musical science, but most difficult to those who are not acquainted with the Greek language; because it is necessary to use many Greek words to which there are none corresponding in Latin.”

“I am moreover inclined to be concise when I reflect on the constant occupation of the citizens in public and private affairs, so that in their few leisure moments they may read and understand as much as possible.”