Product Description

Wren's "Tracts" on Architecture and Other Writings is the first scholarly examination of the theoretical work of one of the most important architects of early modern Europe. From his study of ancient buildings, he posited a new version of the origins and development of the Classical style, thereby becoming one of the first to challenge theoretical principles of architecture that had been upheld since the Renaissance. Rejecting the idea of beauty as absolute and innate, Wren formulated an empirical definition, based on visual perception and custom.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2860576 in Books
• Published on: 2007-10-08
• Released on: 2008-08-21
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 340 pages

Review
"...this collection provides an engaging representation of a perceptive and inventive mind at work." Paul Malo, International Journal of the Classical Tradition

"[Soo] is to be congratulated on bringing the writings of Wren back into print and in so doing helping to bring this elusive man into sharper focus." John Bold, Albion

"...invaluable..." James Fenton, New York Review of Books

Customer Reviews

Wren's 'Tracts' - a wonderful compendium of Primary Sources
In this work Prof. Soo has collected the surviving writings of Wren on architecture. These, for the serious student, are invaluable, and here they are collected together in one volume for the first time, at least in modern times.

Covering such topics as London's antiquities, Reports on Gothic churches, Church architecture in general, and the tracts themselves, Soo's work gives the reader a rare chance to 'get into the mind' of one of the greatest minds ever to have existed.

Soo's annotations shed much light on Wren's own writings (many of which were actually transcribed by Wren' own son). Much has been written about Britain's most famous architect, but very few have attempted to get 'under the bonnet' (hood) of the Great Man - and here Soo has succeeded.

Copiously illustrated with Wren's own drawings and many contemporary illustrations, the book can be thoroughly recommended. A magnificent effort.