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From 450 to the Twentieth Century: A Journey Through Architectural History

Jon Reed

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Published in Traveling Through Egypt: From 450 B C To The Twentieth Century

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Architecture is one of the most visible and enduring expressions of human culture. It can tell us about the beliefs, values, and technologies of a society. In the book From 450 to the Twentieth Century, architectural historian John Summerson takes readers on a fascinating journey through the evolution of architecture from the early Byzantine period to the modern era.

Traveling Through Egypt: From 450 B.C. to the Twentieth Century

by Louis L'Amour

4.7 out of 5

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Summerson begins his book with a discussion of the early Byzantine period, which saw the rise of the Eastern Roman Empire. Byzantine architecture is characterized by its use of domes, mosaics, and rich ornamentation. Some of the most famous examples of Byzantine architecture include the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna.

From the Byzantine period, Summerson moves on to the Romanesque period, which lasted from the 11th to the 12th centuries. Romanesque architecture is characterized by its use of thick walls, round arches, and small windows. Some of the most famous examples of Romanesque architecture include the Abbey of Cluny in France and the Cathedral of Pisa in Italy.

The Gothic period, which lasted from the 12th to the 16th centuries, saw a dramatic change in architectural style. Gothic architecture is characterized by its use of pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large windows. Some of the most famous examples of Gothic architecture include the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and the Westminster Abbey in London.

The Renaissance period, which lasted from the 14th to the 16th centuries, saw a return to the classical forms of ancient Greece and Rome. Renaissance architecture is characterized by its use of symmetry, proportion, and harmony. Some of the most famous examples of Renaissance architecture include the Palazzo Medici in Florence and the St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

The Baroque period, which lasted from the 16th to the 18th centuries, saw a further elaboration of the Renaissance style. Baroque architecture is characterized by its use of dramatic curves, rich ornamentation, and theatrical effects. Some of the most famous examples of Baroque architecture include the Palace of Versailles in France and the Church of Santa Maria della Salute in Venice.

The Neoclassicism period, which lasted from the 18th to the 19th centuries, saw a return to the simple forms of ancient Greece and Rome. Neoclassical architecture is characterized by its use of straight lines, geometric forms, and restrained ornamentation. Some of the most famous examples of Neoclassical architecture include the White House in Washington, D.C. and the British Museum in London.

The Modernism period, which lasted from the 19th to the 20th centuries, saw a radical break with the past. Modernist architecture is characterized by its use of new materials and technologies, such as steel, concrete, and glass. Some of the most famous examples of Modernist architecture include the Bauhaus building in Dessau, Germany and the Seagram Building in New York City.

The Postmodernism period, which began in the 1960s, has seen a return to some of the forms and elements of the past. Postmodernist architecture is characterized by its use of irony, eclecticism, and fragmentation. Some of the most famous examples of Postmodernist architecture include the Pompidou Center in Paris and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain.

From 450 to the Twentieth Century is a comprehensive and visually stunning book that explores the evolution of architecture from the early Byzantine period to the modern era. Summerson's writing is clear and engaging, and his insights into the history of architecture are invaluable. This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in architecture or history.

Traveling Through Egypt: From 450 B.C. to the Twentieth Century

by Louis L'Amour

4.7 out of 5