The protagonism of the urban body. A Dialogue on and with the body of the city

A quick reflection on the classical iconography from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance reveals the significance of architectural framing in Italian art. This architectural context not only serves as a visual backdrop but also symbolizes the organization of social life and the community’s collective needs. The structured integration of city and countryside in Italian artistic expressions evokes a unique essence, blurring the boundaries between urban and rural spaces. This harmonious relationship echoes the ancient principles of blending the rural and urban, as articulated by Vitruvius in his concept of Rus in urbe and Urbs in rure.