Product Description

This superbly illustrated book is the only one of its kind to trace the history of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and sculpture in all of France, focusing especially on the exalted ecclesiastical structures-and the splendid sculpture, painting, illuminated manuscripts, and stained glass made for these churches, monasteries, abbeys, and cathedrals-created by inspired "builders for God."

Touring France province by province, the authors discuss the landmarks of the period, such as Notre-Dame, Cluny, and the Cathedral of Chartres, all of which reflect the religious intensity of the medieval world. Whether exploring the religious history of Catholic France, the historical development of Romanesque and Gothic styles, or the lives and works of the builders and artists who sought to glorify God, this lavishly illustrated, carefully researched book is invaluable for scholars yet accessible for the general reader.

VIVIANE MINNE-SÈVE has taught at the Ecole d'Architecture in Geneva and is currently a professor at the Institut Suprieur de Tourisme in Paris. She specializes in the Romanesque period and has contributed to several Swiss and Italian publications.

HERVÉ KERGALL is a sculptor and a specialist in Gothic art who has written for many exhibition catalogues, often on the working methods of architects of the Romanesque and Gothic periods.

300 illustrations in full color, 50 maps, floor plans, and diagrams, 101/2 x 121/2"

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #569127 in Books
• Published on: 2000-12-01
• Original language: French
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 416 pages

From Library Journal
From the times of turmoil and civil strife around 1000 C.E., the Church was a source of stability and peace, and monasteries and abbeys influenced land development and urban growth. Architecture professor Minne-S ve and sculptor Kergall here focus on the development of Romanesque and Gothic architecture at that time. The authors have abundant examples of French church architecture to examine, along with related relief sculpture, wall paintings, and some stained glass. The book is flush with splendid photo spreads of the buildings and individual architectural features, showing the effect and spirit of the structures as well as fine details. While the organization of the book is a little loose the structure of periods and regions gives way to small diversions into other contemporary artistic influences the text is quite enjoyable and fluid. A useful illustrated glossary of architectural terms is appended. Recommended for larger general libraries or any specialized art history collection. Karen Ellis, Nicholson Memorial Lib. Syst., Garland, TX
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
While the text traces the history of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and sculpture in France, the brilliant array of color photographs offers a breathtaking visual tour of two of the most stylistically significant periods in the modern era. Since most medieval art and architecture was church-centered, the authors examine all of the major cathedrals as well as some of the less well known ecclesiastical gems. In addition to painting a broad overview of the Gothic and Romanesque periods, regional preferences and peculiarities are also addressed on a province-by-province basis. A sumptuous feast for both the eyes and the soul. Margaret Flanagan
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Customer Reviews

Great resource!!
I was recently doing a school report on cathedrals in france and i came acrosss this little gem. It is packed with information on both romanesque and gothic architectural styles and is not only educational but also very intriguing. After doing my report, i continued to read this book and to learn more about architecture. I reccomend this book because it is both informative and well written.

Doing Levert?
This is really helpful if you're doing your Levert project. I know that there are some of you out there who know what I'm talking about. So have fun! It's due in two days! Yay!