Florence: Art and Architecture

Art & Architecture

by Rolf C. Wirtz (Editor), Marco Chiarini (Contributor), Elena Capretti (Contributor)

There can be no doubt about it: this is a magnificent achievement. The illustrated volume Florence: Art and Architecture combines interesting and easily understood texts with an abundance of opulent color illustrations into a first class cultural experience. Prominent Florentine scholars and museum directors accompany the reader on a journey to the unique artistic treasures of this city on the Arno. The experts introduce superb historical buildings and sculptures in their historical contexts, and as "insiders" lead you through world famous painting galleries such as the Accademia and the Palazzo Pitti. Over 500 high quality illustrations, often over more than one page, as well as thematic essays on book illumination, the art of the goldsmith and the treasures of the Medicis round out the text. Whether as an especially beautiful gift or to grace your own bookshelves, this exceptional book is a bibliophile's jewel, and at the same time an enthralling art guide through one of the most gorgeous cities in the world.

Genres: Art, Architecture, Travel, History, Italy, Art History, Nonfiction

528 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Sharon Barrow Wilfong · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous coffee table book that not only includes full color photographs of the major works of paintings and sculpture but also delves into the architecture with no shortage of glossy color photos of the important edifices erected throughout the history of Florence.

I especially enjoyed this book because I had spent a couple of days in Florence and was unable to see everything. I really wish I had read the book first in order to better plan my trip. Still it was fun to recognize the churches, monasteries and basilicas that I had visited and the art and to see what I missed.

It is a great souvenir of a wonderful time and I like being able to turn to this book as a vicarious visit back to one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comprehensive and detailed overview of the art and architecture of Florence. I read it before going to Florence and again upon return- it was even more meaningful after seeing the artworks discussed.

[Helene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though I did set this aside for a long time, (It was a borrowed book and I needed to return it. I then felt I should own it and finish.) it is truly a little gem. It reviews the major places and artwork in Florence and has stunning photographs. It is well organized and give great background information.

I hope to visit Florence someday and this book will travel with me. It is well worth having and reading!

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading art and architecture Florence would make anyone reading this book want to head to the city of Florence for a holiday. There is so much to see in this city of culture and history and all within walking distance of each other however while it explainers the history of painting and architecture. As a history book, it does not say the large number of tourists and that for some museums like the Uffizi Gallery you can be queuing hours to get in but worth the wait.

[Sebastian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of book about art that I live for! A huge amount of glorious prints + actual relevant information about the time period. Just perfect!

[Vincent Ferretti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book on the beautiful art and architecture of Firenze! It gives the historical context and has many gorgeous maps and illustrations.

[Mike Doyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great guide to the History of Architecture in Florence, with a highly detailed but accessible writing style. More than a travel guide, it broke down the major Architectural landmarks and structures with detailed descriptions of not just the structures themselves, but of the original Architects process, and their influence on later structures. An in depth but very readable introduction to renaissance architecture, and with a huge amount of diagrams and photographs to go along with the detailed descriptions. Highly recommended to any architecture fan.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this while studying History of Art and also took it with me on my visit to Florence. It's a good guide to the art and architecture in the city and has good maps of areas along with information about the sites. It's small and wouldn't suit someone looking for large art book pictures, nor is it a light tourist-book (it doesn't contain opening times, etc). But I would definitely recommend it to someone planning a trip to Florence who's interested in learning about what they're seeing.

[Lynda]

Brilliant, as a handbook for traveller and an armchair hopeful, loved it, couldnt put it down even!!!

[ME · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good guide to art & architecture in Florence. Loads of architectural diagrams, if that floats your boat