The Appian Way : Adolphe Appia and the Scenography of Modern Architecture

Adolphe Appia (1862?1928) is an eminent figure in the history of the modern theatre, best-known for his writings on the mise-en-sc?ne and stage design for the operas of Richard Wagner.Far lesser known is the Swiss scenographer?s importance in 20th-century architecture and aesthetics. The Appian Way is the definitive account of Appia?s significance also in this field.It is centred on his remarkable drawings that are at once austere and mysteriously atmospheric.Framing a series of monumental yet minimal scenes taking in runs of stairs, landings, platforms and terraces, all staged before a distant horizon under a luminous sky, the drawings are generally described as monochrome, but the subtle hues of the paper imbue each one with a distinctive ambient undertone.Appia himself might be thought about the same way. He was always distant yet also always enigmatically present in the ensuing drama of modern architecture and avant garde stage design. Comprising four main chapters and a coda, this