Victorian Architecture: Diversity and Invention - Hardcover

Curl, James Stevens

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1904965067 ISBN 13: 9781904965060

Publisher: Spire Books Ltd, 2012

Synopsis

Although more than a century has passed since the end of the Victorian era, the great achievements of the period 1837-1901 are grossly undervalued. Phrases such as 'Victorian monstrosity' are bandied about by many who ought to know better. Professor Curl's robustly argued and beautifully illustrated book shows that the Victorians produced confident, colourful, rumbustiously eclectic architecture, and that they went further than anyone since Roman times to potty-train Urban Man. He deals with the palette of styles available to the Victorians; unprecedented building-types; new materials; ecclesiastical buildings that, arguably, were superior to mediaeval exemplars; the responses of a vital society to contemporary challenges; and puts the built fabric firmly within the context of the intellectual complexities of the age. Wearing his learning lightly, he presents his case with grace, gusto and elegance, bringing the Victorian period to new life in a work which will give readers much to ponder, savour and enjoy.

About this title

About the Author

Professor Emeritus James Stevens Curl is a distinguished architectural historian. He has acquired an enviable international reputation for thorough research, often investigating subjects avoided by those of a more timid disposition. New nearing the end of his seventh decade, his acerbic wit, intellectual curiosity and fluency of expression remain undiminished.

Edition details

• Publisher: Spire Books Ltd
• Publication date: 2012
• ISBN 10: 1904965067
• ISBN 13: 9781904965060
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 636