The architecture of subject

This essay defines material and symbolic implications of linear perspective in modern architecture. First is seen as aesthetical method, which appears in architectural drawings since beginning of European Renaissance. It represents graphic system of creating illusion of spatial depth on flat surface. Second refers to perspective in figurative sense. It symbolizes perception of a subject: the capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance. In terms of vision, it characterizes a visible scene, a mental view or prospect. Modern culture is, accordingly, the culture of perspective. We can presuppose the connection between subject of architecture and linear perspective due to their consistent development in early modern period. The essay proposes that rising of designing subject is gained out from alienation from real space. In systematic representation, such as linear perspective, places are exhausted in defining their positions. Therefore it (representation) presents purely functional, not essential reality. Nonetheless, perspectival system raises arts to the status of sciences. It rationalizes individual performance to extent it becomes a basis of modern, empirical vision of space. Finally, it objectifies subjective viewpoint and, therefore, creates modern subject.