Amaquette is ascale model orrough draft of an unfinishedsculpture or work of architecture.[1] The term is aloanword from French. An equivalent term isbozzetto,[2] a diminutive of the Italian word for a sketch.[3]
A maquette is used to visualize and test forms and ideas without incurring the expense and effort of producing a full-scale piece. It is the analogue of thepainter'scartoon,modello,oil sketch, ordrawn sketch. For commissioned works, especially monumental public sculptures, a maquette may be used to show the client how the finished work will relate to its proposed site. The term may also refer to aprototype for avideo game,film, or other media.Modello, unlike the other terms, is also used for sketches for two-dimensional works such as paintings. Like oil sketches, these models by highly regarded artists can become as desirable as their completed works, as they show the process of developing an idea. For example, eleven bozzetti byGian Lorenzo Bernini, aBaroque sculptor who made his models fromwax or bakedterracotta, were displayed in an exhibition at theArt Institute of Chicago in 2004.[5] Somemuseums, such as the Museo dei Bozzetti inPietrasanta,Italy, specialize in collections of maquettes. Maquette is also used by animators when finalizing a character design and it can also act as reference for the animators.[6]
In fashion design, a maquette may be referred to as afashion doll. From the 16th century, these miniature versions of full-scale costumes were intended to demonstrate the latest trends and designs and allow customers to view the garment before purchasing.[7]
In the 1950s, Irish fashion designerSybil Connolly created a series of maquettes based on her designs including her iconicpleated linen dress First Love.[8] These are now found in theHunt Museum.[9]
The dictionary definition ofmaquette at Wiktionary