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In 1824, Chassériau began his studies at the Ecole des Beaux- Arts in Paris under Jean-François Mesnager, who would later design the fountains on the present-day Place des Vosges, among other projects. After initial commissions for French government buildings in Alexandria, Chassériau was named in 1833 director of city planning in Marseille.
During the following six years he created numerous public works and buildings that still stand today. Dated to this time as well is the proposal shown here for a small but elaborately decorated belvedere with fountains to be built on the heights of the city. In this sheet, the architect presented his imaginative rotunda with a wealth of detail and an effective play of light and shadow.