Early Georgian Interiors (Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art) (The Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art) - Hardcover

Cornforth, John

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0300103301 ISBN 13: 9780300103304

Publisher: Yale University Press, 2004

Synopsis

The interiors of the great country and town houses built in Britain in the eighteenth century were splendid creations, increasingly extravagant as fashions changed and aristocratic owners attempted to outdo one another. This gorgeous book surveys the decorative schemes of these houses, considering the combined effects created by design, furniture, textiles, silver, and artworks. John Cornforth, the foremost authority on British interiors of this era, covers a wide range of subjects. He discusses changing social practice and the uses to which rooms were put; the way that fashions in dress mirrored fashions in interiors; the impact of chinoiserie and eastern styles that became prevalent due to burgeoning trade; the primacy of upholstery in beds, curtains, wall hangings, seat furniture, and case covers; the influence of decorator William Kent; and the ways that collections of art were integrated into designs. And he concludes with detailed case studies of eight preeminent country houses. Engagingly written and generously illustrated, this book is certain to appeal to anyone who maintains, restores, or enjoys visiting historic houses.

About this title

Review:

'Superior production...larger, better and many more illustrations...an exceptional knowledge of individual examples...easy, congenial and unstuffy...' -- Kerry Downes, Transactions of the Ancient Monuments Society, vol.50 (2006)

'a masterly book....it sets the standard for books to come.' -- House and Garden Magazine, January 6 2005

About the Author:

John Cornforth has been the architecture editor for Country Life magazine for many years. He has also acted as architectural consultant to the National Trust, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and numerous private owners.

About this edition

• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0300103301
• ISBN 13: 9780300103304
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 400