| Ceiling domes are spherical
or elliptical in shape and hollowed, with the sphere recessing
into the ceiling, and its concave interior visible when viewed
from below.
Simple ceiling domes have been used since ancient times.
The Romans were the first to build domes on the larger scale.
Many Italian Baroque domes were oval in shape, and much more
uncommon than the standard circular domes.
Ceiling domes of simple design can create an effective focal
point, but today's ceiling domes are also available in many
varieties. Some modern examples of dome accents are inspired
by the domes of old:
Recessed lighting hidden behind the lip of a dome adds ambiance
common to that of Renaissance cathedrals, where lanterns
were placed at the height of the dome, in its cupola.
Decorative molding that circles the rim or spans the interior
of a dome echoes the designs of Renaissance cathedrals where
ornate carvings and multi-layers lined the insides of domes.
The Baroque style of illusionist painting made dome frescoes
prevalent. Painters skillfully added linear perspective to
the concave surfaces of ceiling domes, avoiding the distortions
of curved surfaces, and dissolving the confines of space.
From 1520 to 1524, the painter Antonio Allegri da Corrosion
applied his skills to the cathedral at Parma, Italy, creating
the Assumption of the Virgin, with figures and celestial
scenes.
Today's modern domes can be thought of as a blank canvas,
and painted with clouds, a starry night, or any design, enhancing
the personality of a room.
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