The countryside,towns and cities of Britain are full of churches. They represent some of the most iconic,beautiful and occasionally bizarre buildings in the country. They have a lot to say about our history,our art and our ideas. But how do you read them Through charming illustrations,Rice's Church Primer reveals the basic grammar and vocabulary of church architecture throughout the United Kingdom. As Matthew Rice says,'Once you can speak any language,conversations can begin,but without it communications can only be brief and brutish. The same is the case with Architecture: an inability to describe the component parts of a building leaves one tongue-tied and unable to begin to discuss what is or is not exciting,dull or peculiar about it.'Rice's Church Primer explains the language of architecture in churches,from the restrained Norman style of William the Conqueror to the gilded excesses of the Baroque. The primer begins with an explanation of the basic'Grammar'of churches: elevation,plan,fronts,vaults and towers. This allows the reader to easily understand what follows. Next comes the'Vocabulary'of styles in chronological order,from ancient Saxon churches to modern cathedrals. Each period covers component parts like doors,windows,towers,pews,panelling and pulpits. Finally,there is a map pinpointing some of the best churches around the country,so you can practise your newfound fluency in real life.With Matthew Rice's elegant and witty illustrations to guide you,suddenly you'll understand why naves are necessary,why towers are builtas tall as possible and why sometimes even the most respectable churchneeds a good flying buttress.
MEDIA REVIEWS
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLCISBN: 9781408807521Number of pages: 224Weight: 508 gDimensions: 198 x 140 mm
MEDIA REVIEWS
The perfect stocking filler for the ecclesiastical enthusiastThe words are as engaging as the illustrations,for Mr Rice is a wordsmith as well as a penman,and manages,through both skills,to bring an understanding of the development of church architecture within reach of any reader whose depth of ignorance is matched by the breadth of their curiosity.Charming,wittily illustrated...Definitely one to slip into the glove apartmentDelightfulBeautifully illustrated throughout...It's easy to not only be enlightened but also delighted by Rice's drawings,which border on impish and quirky at times...This is a delightful book,a welcoming introduction that's perfect for anyone who doesn't know their Perpendicular from their Decorated
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