Floating Cities: Venice, Amsterdam, Leningrad-And Moscow

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant.......2002-08-09

Stephen Wiltshire's pen and ink drawings are fantastic. He captures each subject perfectly and in incredible detail...sometimes having only seen the subject for a few minutes. Incredible drawings made even more incredible by the fact that Stephen is autistic.

Floating Cities.......2001-11-30

Reading this book was an inspiration.The intricate detail and elegance of each drawing is breath-taking.
As an autistic individual he is able to capture the beauty an essence that a normal person with their eye would not see.
His work seems effortless, and takes him no time to do at all, but yet he is a perfectionist, right down to the last detail.
I am not an art critic, but certainly now I do appreciate the architecture that surrounds me and realize how beautiful it really is, and although Autism is not really understood and how it is actually caused.
Stephen, no matter what level of autism he seems to possess, he has truly mastered and captured the gracefullness of each buillding that he draws.
In a word he is an "Artistic, Autistic Genius."

A savant at work!.......2001-05-06

This man's pictures have to be seen to be believed. Stephen Wiltshire actually is Autistic,operating on a six year old level for most of his adult life. He has a very rare talent of being able to visually process all that he sees and reproduce these images on paper. I have seen him on a TV show being flown around London on a helicopter and reproducing a image of 4 square miles, including 11 London landmarks and over 600 buildings with perfect perspective and scale in less than three hours.

This book has to be appreciated for what it is, a work of a genius!

The Wrong Description.......2000-06-24

I agree that this is not the correct description of the book. Floating cities is actually a series of drawings done by a young english autistic boy. They are absolutely fantastic renditions of famous buildings, made more incredible by the fact that Stephen himself has this overwhelming disability, and many of them were done by memory. This book will make you realise that disabilities are by no means disabling, and can open up worlds unaccessable to the rest of society.

The Wrong Description.......2000-06-24

Venice & the East: The Impact of the Islamic World on Venetian Architecture 1100-1500

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dont get carried away
The Many Veils of Venice
Venice's love affair with the Orient

Venice & the East: The Impact of the Islamic World on Venetian Architecture 1100-1500
Deborah Howard
Manufacturer: Yale University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0300085044

Book Description

Venetian merchants of the Middle Ages imported more than precious spices and textiles from the far reaches of the eastern Mediterranean, they also acquired a wealth of visual ideas and information from Islamic culture, this book shows. Architectural historian Deborah Howard explores the range of buildings that reflected Muslim imagery and discusses the complexities of importing such ideas to an unambiguously Christian city.

Customer Reviews:

dont get carried away.......2007-08-03

The importance with books of this sort, is dont get carried away. Islam is a big question today, and intercultural history is a top priority, but accuracy should always trump political fads. Venice is by far a city of Byzantine and Gothic, much less Islamic influence. The book fails to make this sufficiently clear, and can leave the reader with the impression that Venice, and the Renaissance had Oriental roots. This is plain wrong.

The Many Veils of Venice.......2007-06-25

Deborah Howard is steeped in the enigma of Venetian architecture and gives a fabulous interpretation of its development through trading relationships with the Islamic world from 1100-1500 AD.

By emphasising the mental `Transmission and Propagation' of Islamic imagery as much as any materialistic one through trade, Howard shows just how elastic the `process of cultural diffusion' was and restores the importance of the oral tradition in the `reformulation' of that imagery into another space and time.

Her focus on the Middle East draws our attention away from Constantinople, bringing out the importance of Alexandria as one of the main sources of cultural inspiration.

In a vivid example of a rescued and transformed architectural motif, Howard mentions at length the lighthouse Pharos of Alexandria. This wonder of the ancient world was still standing when Islam spread across the North African coast and its secular function as a light in dark places became a potent spiritual symbol with the slimmed down rise of many a minaret.

The offspring of Pharos continued to multiply with Venice contributing several of its own; the last example, Codussi's campanile for the cathedral church of San Pietro di Castello with, `its snow-white ashlar masonry . . . stands at the eastern end of the city, as a beacon for the sea borne traveller from the east.'

The Great Umayyed Mosque in Damascus also gets singled out for special attention as does the Abbasid and Fatimid periods in general, with their legacy of impressive building projects that impacted upon the mind of many a Venetian merchant.

Howard reminds us how the papal ban on trade with Moslems became more than just a tiresome irritant for the Venetians. With so much lucrative trade at stake, the essence of its survival, good relations with the Moslem Middle East were a necessity; in Cairo for example, `only Venetian gold ducats are accepted currency.'

Venice also became a facilitator in pilgrim traffic to Jerusalem and it is the combination of so many of those factors that makes Deborah Howard's narrative so interesting. With splendid photographs and maps to reinforce her view, we look at Venice with fresh eyes while the ghost of bygone Alexandria dazzles, mirage like, before us.

The ripe old civilisations of the east were infused with much positive creativity in the wake of Islamic conquests: Howard's narrative helps dissolve the rigid and outdated paradigm of a `clash of civilisations,' revealing a grudging sense of admiration by many a Christian merchant and pilgrim who stood witness to Islamic ways of life and became transmitters of that imagery back to Venice.

An unusual book: Highly recommended!

Venice's love affair with the Orient.......2001-03-16

Clearly one of the best art books of the year, Venice and the East traces the impact of Islamic art on the Venetian imagination -- as evident in its architecture. Though stunning illustrations that compare Venetian and Islamic architecture and a well-written text based on primary sources, author Deborah Howard shows that, in the heyday of Levantine trade, Venetian merchants brought back more than spices and cotton from the Islamic world. They also brought back visions of paradise: Islamic styles in gardens, courtyards and palaces that evoked not just Eastern sensuality but also biblical grandeur and spirituality. Although Howard gives ample attention to the borrowing of specific architectural motifs -- balconies, crenellated walls and ogee windows -- she goes well beyond a cataloging of borrowed style. This is, most of all, a study in cultural assimilation -- of ideas as much as architectural form -- and is well worth treasuring whether your passion runs to architecture, history, sociology, or more simply: to gorgeously illustrated coffee table books.

Palladio's Venice: Architecture and Society in a Renaissance Republic

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review of palladio's venice
VENICE AND PALLADIO A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

Palladio's Venice: Architecture and Society in a Renaissance Republic
Tracy E. Cooper
Manufacturer: Yale University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0300105827

Book Description

Celebrated Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio (1508–1580) devoted much of his career to the city of Venice. Famous for public buildings he had designed in his native Vicenza and country villas he had built for wealthy patricians there, he arrived in Venice in the mid- 1550s confident of establishing a successful new practice. Yet Palladio’s Venetian career never matched his lofty expectations. Failing to achieve the position of state architect or to earn the kinds of commissions to which he was accustomed, he found himself working in a category new to his practice: ecclesiastical architecture. It was his stunning churches, however, including San Giorgio Maggiore and Il Redentore, that established Palladio’s lasting renown.
In this fascinating and beautifully illustrated book, Tracy E. Cooper organizes Palladio’s work in Venice according to different types of patrons. She discusses his major monuments as well as less well-known work for charitable foundations, convents, triumphal processions, and the rebuilding of the Ducal Palace. She tells the compelling story of an established architect breaking into a new market and of a Renaissance city in the midst of sweeping change.

Customer Reviews:

review of palladio's venice.......2007-02-19

the book came in a timely manner and is in very good condition

VENICE AND PALLADIO A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN.......2006-10-11

Really a wonderful book on the iconic Palladio and his muse Venice. It's as if, the two where made for each other, his genius seems to have found its perfect setting in this most unique city. The images are crisp and the text is fascinating. If you have any interest in Palladio or Venice, or just appreciate a great coffee table book, then I can't conceive of you being anything but pleased with this purchase. Highly recommended.

Venice: History, Art and Architecture, Lifestyle

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gorgeous gift

Venice: History, Art and Architecture, Lifestyle
Alain Vircondelet
Manufacturer: Flammarion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 2080305476
Release Date: 2006-10-31

Book Description

A deliciously familiar yet seemingly untouchable and magical world, Venice has an unparalleled legacy of monuments, traditions, and culture dating back more than 1600 years. From the fogs that haunt its streets to the sunlight that bathes its churches, the beautiful city of Venice exists in another time. Sumptuously illustrated with over 300 photographs, this is the Venice that guidebooks do not showâthe Venice that the people who live there love best. Exploring the history, architecture, art, day-to-day life, and the hidden treasures of this beautiful city, the comprehensive scope of this attractive boxed set is what distinguishes it from others of its kind. The first volume explores the historical legends of Venice as well as the Venice of the Doges and of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The second volume covers the city's art and architecture in depthâfrom St. Mark's Square to the biennales of contemporary art. In the third volume, the reader is taken inside the city itselfâfrom its festivals, artisanal glassware, and edible delicacies, to the mythic cafÃ©s, restaurants, and bars where locals while away the day. Enticing accounts of the most memorable sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the city make this a unique insider's resource.

Customer Reviews:

gorgeous gift.......2007-05-10

I gave this as a gift -- it is a gorgeous set for anyone who has been to Venice... or is longing to go.

The Architectural History of Venice: Revised and enlarged edition

Average customer rating:

Great Start Point

The Architectural History of Venice: Revised and enlarged edition
Deborah Howard
Manufacturer: Yale University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0300090293

Book Description

This book is the indispensable guide to the history of architecture in Venice, encompassing the city's fascinating variety of buildings from ancient times to the present day. Completely updated and filled with splendid new illustrations, this edition invites all visitors to Venice, armchair travelers, and students of Renaissance art and architecture to a fuller appreciation of the buildings of this uniquely beautiful city.

Customer Reviews:

Great Start Point.......2003-11-26

Mrs. Howard not only describes "the stones" of this city , but illuminate the soul with details of great historic relevance.
Beacuse of her I learned about the Ruskin's classic book on
Venice and the influence of the Arabs on the West.
This is a very good start point to explore in detail
(with books and travel) the architectural treasures of
this dream surounded by water.

Average customer rating:

best ever
Venetian Palaces
informative, comprehensive and visually stunning!
A must-have book
Venetian Palaces - A Brief Review

Venetian Palaces
Alvise Zorzi
Manufacturer: Rizzoli
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0847812006
Release Date: 1991-01-15

Customer Reviews:

best ever.......2007-08-03

This is a historians, architects, and artists must. Nothing beats this professional, tasteful, and meticulous presentation of Venetian pomp. The only trouble is availability and price.

Venetian Palaces.......2003-02-18

If you appreciate Venetian architecture or any architecture, this is an absolute must have book. I could only rate it five stars, but it deserves a hundred. The best book on Venice in my library of over a dozen, hands down!

informative, comprehensive and visually stunning!.......1999-06-07

A beautifull book that comprehensively covers the history and design of the palazzos of Venice. Particularly noteworthy for many stunning interior shots that are rarely find in other publications, and for the family crests that accompany each building. Excellent text that places each building stylistically, historically and contextually. Good paper stock and type. Makes you want to paint your walls red and cover everything in velvet. Really!

A must-have book.......1999-01-06

Love the book. Great photography and easy reading. Venice is poetry and romance and this book captures the essence of that. Highly recommend to all readers and travelers.

Venetian Palaces - A Brief Review.......1997-07-30

The photos found in this book are great. They reveal the details of the sculptures found in various palaces in Venice to the extent that it looks as if the sculpture you are staring at is placed in front of you! On the other hand, the illustration of each palace is preceded by the coat-of-arm of the family that originally owns the palace, except the Doge's Palace. I must admit that the coat-of-arms in parade are rarely shown in those books about Venice and each of them is more than just attractive - they are masterpiece of art and exotic!! P.S. I am most impressed by the photo that features the western facade of the Doge's Palace in Saint Mark Square. It reflects the fact that the Doge's Palace is surely one of the most outstanding palaces in the world!

Average customer rating:

biggest, most comprehensive book on Venetian Art and architecture.
Magnificent!
Venice Art & Architecture
Slightly lacking on the art side of things
venice: art & architecture

Venice: Art & Architecture

Manufacturer: Konemann
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 3895085936

Customer Reviews:

biggest, most comprehensive book on Venetian Art and architecture........2005-10-21

It ranks side by side with the other book The art of Florence. Ihave these books and I have lot's of books about Venice. But on the subject of art and architecture. This is the most comprehensive to date.
It's more like a general book. It lacks though some focus on La Serenissima's various museums and other works of Art . But of any books out there to date this is certainly the most exhaustive of all. Bravi!

Magnificent!.......2001-06-13

I concur with others who reviewed this book and give it top billing! The photos are exquisitely clear and are a good representation of what the city offers. The text is quite complete, although I, too, would have liked to have seen more on Venetian glass. Another fabulous collection for those who love the jewel of a city or for any lover of fine art and architecture.

Venice Art & Architecture.......2001-05-18

I borrowed these books from a friend. I could not believe my eyes. They are most fantastic! I have ordered a set for myself. I recommend them highly!

Slightly lacking on the art side of things.......2000-05-20

The book consists of two books in a slipcase, and given its unusually large format and high quality paper, it weighs a ton. The weight is however well substantiated by the contents! The progression is chronological, right from the beginnings of Venice in Volume I, to modern items at the end of Volume II. The architecture side of things is covered by hundreds of top quality photographs of buildings inside and outside, as well as drawings, old photographs, and building plans. As for the art, there are countless clear representations of the masterpieces of the city. Having been in the city a few times, this book adds so much value, firstly by showing me reminders of the places and objects I have seen, and secondly by exposing the interiors of buildings usually closed to the casual visitor.

The reason why I rated this four stars instead of five, is because the book does not give as much coverage to Venice's art museums as I feel it should. Sure, the contents of the art museums were in large part not manufactured by Venetian artists, but all this art now forms part of Venice on account of having been in its museums for decades. Understandably, however, that would probably require another two volumes! Another area that was perhaps not covered sufficiently is that of glass. After all, Venetian glass is world famous, and it deserved more than a short chapter.

Overall however, this is the sort of book one would expect to find in the reference section of a top class library, and yet the price makes it affordable for your own home. It is also very much a scholarly work, filled with details in the text section. It is thus perfect for both those who want to look at the stunning pictures, and those who want to really get into the story behind it all. You will not be disappointed, and I recommend this work without reservation.

venice: art & architecture.......1999-12-02

a very wonderful book for people who love art and architecture especially for a wonderful and enchanting city such as venice. Through this book one is able to be transported in time and view its art and architecture one that cannot do in even the most dedicated of travelers to this fascinating city.

Venice, CA: Art and Architecture in a Maverick Community

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If you ever wondered who lived there...

Venice, CA: Art and Architecture in a Maverick Community
Michael Webb , and Juergen Nogai
Manufacturer: Harry N. Abrams, Inc.
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Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0810993066

Book Description

Venice, California, is one of the most vibrant and distinctive communities in the United States. While it's best known for its bohemian atmosphere, picture-perfect canals, and rambunctious boardwalk, there's much more to Venice than what appears on the glossy surface. For years, it has been a locus of creative activity and home to world-class artists, architects, and designers who have continuously given it new life. Venice, CA is an exploration of Venice's original and captivating approach to lifestyle, architecture, and design.

Established a century ago as the Coney Island of the Pacific, Venice lost its rides and gained a picturesque clutter of cottages and warehouses. In between these humble facades are cutting-edge buildings by Frank Gehry, Morphosis, Coop Himmelblau, and Lorcan O'Herlihy. Venice, CA allows readers unprecedented access into the homes and studios of Ed Ruscha, Dennis Hopper, John Baldessari, Ken Price, Robert Graham, and other major artists, architects, and mavericks.

Customer Reviews:

If you ever wondered who lived there..........2007-08-28

I love strolling around Venice Beach. This delightful book allowed me to take a glimpse inside some wonderful homes and understand a little more about the quirky, creative people who have made Venice Beach special. If you can't live there, buying this book is the next best thing.

Private Lives in Renaissance Venice: Art, Architecture, and the Family

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Private lives in Renaissance Venice: Art, Architecgture, and family
Must-have for lovers of Renaisance Venice

Private Lives in Renaissance Venice: Art, Architecture, and the Family
Patricia Fortini Brown
Manufacturer: Yale University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0300102364

Book Description

This book offers an engaging and original perspective on the private lives and material culture of patrician families in sixteenth-century Venice. Distinguished art historian Patricia Fortini Brown takes us behind the elegant façades of grand palaces built along the Venetian canals and examines the roles of both fine and applied arts in family life as well as the public messages that these impressive homes conveyed.
Illustrated with hundreds of varied and unusual images, the book provides a lively picture of the aristocratic lifestyle during a period of changing definitions of nobility. The author considers such wide-ranging themes as attitudes toward wealth and display, the articulation of family identity, and the visual culture of Venetian women—how they decorated their homes, dressed, undertook domestic tasks, entertained, and raised their children. Recapturing the interplay between the public and private, she offers an account of Venetian households unequalled in vividness and detail.

Customer Reviews:

Private lives in Renaissance Venice: Art, Architecgture, and family.......2005-09-21

A very well documented book with a deep knowledge of the social conditions of Venice in the Renaissance period it covers. I found it a little bit dense sometimes. The illustrations are good. Hector Cardenas

Must-have for lovers of Renaisance Venice .......2005-07-17

Another great book about Renaissance Venice by Patricia Fortini Brown. Filled with many large colored pictures and black + white drawings, this book is a must for recreationists + others obsessed with 16th century Venice. Lots of information on the small details of daily life: art, architecture, music, furnishings, clothing, utensils, games of chance and fortune-telling. This author is one of the bests on the subject of daily life in Renaissance Venice.

Venice's Mediterranean Colonies: Architecture and Urbanism

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Venice's Mediterranean Colonies: Architecture and Urbanism
Maria Georgopoulou
Manufacturer: Cambridge University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 052178235X

Book Description

This book examines the architecture and urbanism in the Venetian colonies of the Eastern Mediterranean and how their built environments express the close cultural ties with both Venice and Byzantium. Using the island of Crete and its capital city, Candia (modern Herakleion) as a case study, Maria Georgopoulou exposes the dynamic relationship that existed between colonizer and colony. Georgopoulou demonstrates how the Venetian colonists manipulated Crete's past history in order to support and legitimate colonial rule, particularly through the appropriation of older Byzantine traditions in civic and religious ceremonies.

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