Gothic: Architecture, Sculpture, Painting

The awesome diversity of a fascinating epoch of European art and culture is presented in this wide-ranging illustrated volume. It presents the history of Gothic architecture from its origins and blossoming in 12th-century France through its dissemination in all of Europe; and an in-depth discussion of the most diverse art forms, including painting, sculpture, metalwork and book illumination. It includes individual essays on special themes such as heresy or the Cathars, the development of cities or the Papal Palace in Avignon. It is richly illustrated with photographs, most of which were taken specifically for this book. The Gothic period is one of the first epochs in art history from which artworks of all kinds have been preserved: from cathedrals, castles and palaces to masterful paintings and the most filigree works of goldsmiths, this volume displays the breadth and richness of a unique craftsmanship. Specific contributions delve into the development of Gothic architecture in France, as well as the national characteristics it took on from Spain and Portugal to northern and eastern Europe. Entire chapters are devoted to the Papal Palace of Avignon and the splendour of Gothic glass painting. This volume provides an overview of the artistic diversity of the Gothic - in no small part through the richness of the illustrations - that could scarcely be more vivid.

About the Author :
For this work, editor Rolf Toman gathered a team of eleven renowned authors with profound expertise in the fields of architecture and art history whose competent knowledge clearly elucidates the art of the Gothic period.

Review :
From Library Journal Here is a wonderful book that both inspires and educates. A huge volume covering the Gothic movement in art from the 12th century to the Renaissance, it focuses largely on the development of Gothic architecture, resplendent in well-placed illustrations and photographs that evoke the grandeur of the period. Smaller sections follow on sculpture, painting, stained glass, and gold work. The text is clear and organized, with each chapter authored by German writers and art experts; the translation from German may account for some small editorial errors. Michael Camille's Gothic Art: Glorious Visions (LJ 11/1/96) is perhaps a more general, popular introduction to the topic, but this book is a major text on Gothic art. Highly recommended for academic libraries and larger public libraries.AKaren Ellis, Baldwin Boettcher Lib., Humble, TX Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Library Journal Here is a wonderful book that both inspires and educates. A huge volume covering the Gothic movement in art from the 12th century to the Renaissance, it focuses largely on the development of Gothic architecture, resplendent in well-placed illustrations and photographs that evoke the grandeur of the period. Smaller sections follow on sculpture, painting, stained glass, and gold work. The text is clear and organized, with each chapter authored by German writers and art experts; the translation from German may account for some small editorial errors. Michael Camille's Gothic Art: Glorious Visions (LJ 11/1/96) is perhaps a more general, popular introduction to the topic, but this book is a major text on Gothic art. Highly recommended for academic libraries and larger public libraries.AKaren Ellis, Baldwin Boettcher Lib., Humble, TX Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.