Product Description

This two-part volume offers an innovative analysis and interpretation of Brunelleschi's masterpiece. Part One, which is richly illustrated with iconographic material, traces the design and construction phases of this magnificent building and explores its impact on figurative and literary culture down the ages. With the aid of original charts and diagrams, Part Two provides a thorough analysis of the structure, construction and static equilibrium of the Cupola, including a description and assessment of the current state of the cracks. This provides a solid basis for predicting the likely future behaviour of the monument and for suggesting possible conservation measures.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #185888 in Books
• Published on: 2006-07-12
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 288 pages

Customer Reviews

Note: This is not a hardcover book
I bought one of these books in paperback form at the museum store in Florence, Italy and ordered more from Amazon when I saw the description specified "hardcover." The books I received were the same as I had bought in Florence...paperback. Yes, the cover is a heavier-than-usual card stock, but it is NOT hardcover as we have come to think of a hardcover binding.

That said, if you have ever seen Brunelleschi's cupola in person, been awestruck by its detail and managed to survive the climb of hundreds of steps to the top for the spectacular views, you will find this book fascinating and instructive. It also makes a terrific gift for the architect or builder in your life.

Interesting two fold approach to examining a masterpiece
The book is divided into two parts and in the middle are several very good photographs and drawings of the cupola both interior and exterior including the area between the two domes.

The first part covers the history of the building, where the materials were gathered, how Brunelleschi came up with the design, how he oversaw the construction and workers to complete the project. A detailed chronology of the various repairs and modifications that have taken place since it's completion in 1436 is also examined. Part one concludes with a discussion of the Cupolas greater role in Florence and its impact and perception among artist, architects, writers, and others.

Part two is entirely devoted to examining the structure from an engineering perspective. This part may be very challenging for non-engineer types to really understand, as the analysis becomes quite technical and assumes the reader understands things such as bending moments, tensile stress, laws of elasticity, and more. That being said it does a great job in covering in detail the structural deformation of the cupola, the current tensile loads creating cracks above the four piers, a finite element analysis of the structure in its both cracked and un-cracked states, and methods for reinforcing the cupola so that structural integrity in maintained.

The information in part two alone justifies the purchase of this book, especially for engineering students and practicing engineers who also share an interest in history.