Wren's 'Tracts' on Architecture and Other Writings

by Lydia M. Soo

Overview

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

ISBN-13:	9780521044240
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	10/02/2007
Edition description:	Reissue
Pages:	340
Product dimensions:	6.65(w) x 9.65(h) x 0.67(d)

Table of Contents

List of illustrations; Acknowledgements; Editorial note; Introduction; 1. Notes on the antiquities of London; 2. Notes and reports on Gothic churches; 3. Letter from Paris; 4. Letter on building churches; 5. Tracts on architecture; Conclusion: Wren's method of design; Appendix; List of abbreviations; Notes; Selected bibliography; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...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

From the Publisher