By Mary Miers (2000, Aurum Press)
Ravishing images of doors and windows, from medieval to Art Deco, make this title in the 100 Period Details series is an inspiration for historians and designers alike. It’s also a book to be dipped into by the general reader, who will delight in the selection of photographs drawn from the incomparable Country Life picture library. Every week since it was founded in 1897, the magazine has featured an article on a country house illustrated with specially commissioned photographs. The result is an unrivalled archive of images by leading photographers over 125 years, recording the architecture—exteriors and interiors—furnishings and decoration of some of Britain’s finest houses. Remarkable work in a wide variety of media, from plaster and paint to wood and wrought iron, is put under the magnifying glass in celebration of the craftsmanship and building traditions represented by the examples chosen. The gallery of superb black and white photographs is complemented by informative captions and an introductory essay covering the history, chronology and symbolism of doors and windows through the ages.
ON-LINE 5-STAR REVIEW of Doors & Windows
*****
This is an excellent source to look at and enjoy but if you are looking for an idea book you should pass on this one…..unless you are building a multi-million dollar castle. The architectural details are works of art here and would be appropriate for few homes being built today. I still love looking at the images within.”
Tom Sawyer, 29 Jan. 2007