Germany (Hildesheim)

Knochenhaueramtshaus (Butchers' Guild Hall, Hildesheim): Frieze of All'Antica Portrait Medallions and Relief Bands

2538

Originally constructed between 1529 and 1535 during the Northern Renaissance / German Renaissance period, and faithfully reconstructed post-war.

Architecturally, these multi-tiered horizontal bands organize the massive multi-storey façade into a rational classical grid, breaking up the vertical weight of the building. Symbolically, the gallery of Roman emperors, classical commanders, and historical rulers represented in the roundels served to align the wealthy butchers' guild with imperial authority, classical antiquity, and universal civic prestige.