Le variazioni della "Serliana": Aspetti e motivi dell'architettura del potere dall'antichita' al rinascimento italiano e spagnolo

The main contributions included in this doctoral thesis are An updated list of all examples we have been able to identify thus far, including the most complete iconographic and numismatic catalogue of images featuring the ‘Serliana’. A critical overview of the use of the ‘Serliana’ and similar motifs through Antiquity, Middle Ages and the Renaissance, including examples in as many different formats as possible (architecture and iconography) Identification of the main areas where the ‘Serliana’ originated and developed, and the formal and technical advances produced in each of these locations. Explanation of the causes and the consequences of the processes of architectonic innovation. Proving that the arrival of the ‘Serliana’ in Hispania dates from around the II century AD. Discussion of the numerous iconographic examples. Discussion of the functions and possible symbolic meaning. Hypothesis on the role of ephemeral architecture on the development of the ‘Serliana’. Hypothesis on the role played by military architecture. Review of the usage of the ‘Serliana’ in Late Antiquity and general overview of the processes of transfer and transformation. Demonstration that the usage of the ‘Serliana’ continued through the Middle Ages Analysis of the triple arcade as a possible replacement for the ‘Serliana’. Critical commentary of late medieval and Renaissance drawings depicting the ‘Serliana’, and its relationship with the study at the time of classical monuments. Identification of examples and critical commentary of the usage of the ‘Serliana’ in Quattrocento Italy. Identification of paradigmatic examples and critical commentary of the usage of the ‘Serliana’ in Quattrocento and Cinquecento Italy. Analysis of the convergence of the ‘Serliana’ from Italy to Spain and evolution of the motif in the latter country. Demonstration of the specifically Spanish innovations.