The James Sutherland history lecture 2026 was delivered by Tom F. Peters, who examined the pivotal role of visual representation in the evolution of engineering as distinct from architecture during 17th and 18th century France.
The lecture traced how drawing and diagramming methods developed through stereotomy, perspective and mechanics enabled the shift from architecture’s focus on built form to engineering’s emphasis on process. These methods emerged from collaborations between Girard Desargues, Abraham Bosse and Philippe de La Hire, and were later refined by thinkers including Pierre Varignon, Henri Gautier and Bernard Forest de Bélidor. Their legacy continues through the richly illustrated treatises of Robert Pitrou, Louis de Règemorte and Jean Rodolphe Perronet.
Through striking historical images and technical insights, the lecture highlighted how the act of illustrating construction processes helped define the identity of engineering.
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Discover how early engineers used drawings to think through problems and communicate ideas.
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Learn how centuries old illustrations helped define engineering as its own profession, distinct from architecture.
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Gain insight into rare images and texts that demonstrate how construction knowledge was passed down and transformed.
Teaching engineering through images - How architecture and engineering split: Presentation delivered by Professor Tom F. Peters