What Does Maquettes Mean?

A maquette is a scale model or rough draft of an unfinished sculpture. An equivalent term is bozzetto, from the Italian word for "sketch". A maquette is used to visualize and test forms and ideas without incurring the expense and effort of producing a full-scale piece.

Where did the word maquette come from?

The French word, which possesses the same meaning as its English descendant, derived from the Italian noun "macchietta," meaning "sketch," and ultimately from Latin "macula," meaning "spot." Maquettes are generally intended to serve as rough models of larger designs.

What are maquettes used for?

A maquette, also known as a bozzetto or modello, is a three dimensional object made as a preparatory study for a full-sized sculpture. Artists employ maquettes to test out shapes and figural poses, as well as to show patrons prospective designs.