Advantage Quote by Marcus Vitruvius Pollio
“All these soft kinds [of stone] have the advantage that they can be easily worked as soon as they have been taken from the quarries. Under cover, they play their part well; but in open and exposed situations the frost and rime make them crumble, and they go to pieces. On the seacoast, too, the salt eats away and dissolves them, nor can they stand great heat either.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: De Architectura, Book III, 1st century BC
Soft stones are easy to shape but crumble under exposure to frost, salt, or heat, limiting their structural use.
In simple terms: Soft stone works well indoors but fails outdoors.
Use appropriate materials for environmental conditions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- building foundations
- outdoor sculptures
- historical restoration
- landscape design
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you select materials for durability?
- What alternatives exist for harsh climates?
Modern materials may offer better resilience.