The Architecture of Sir Christopher Wren

First edition (1956) copy of The Architecture of Sir Christopher Wren by Viktor Furst.

This is the most detailed study of Wren's work, as regards both text and illustration, yet to have been published in one volume. The material edited by the Wren Society has here been exhaustively examined, and the more than 100 drawings discovered in 1951 are discussed in detail.

The author's chief aim has been to present the corpus of Wren's work, from early immaturity to accomplished mastery, as the result of a continuous process of logical development. This has entailed the rejection of many traditionally accepted dates, but the reader will find the chronology proposed on the basis of stylistic criteria fully supported by documentary evidence.

Wren's inspiration is traced in many parallels to works with which he is known to have been familiar; on the other hand, his conception of architecture is illuminated not only by comparison with his predecessors, but also by reference to many of the works of art, philosophy, history, and science known to have been in his library.
In addition, the text is complemented by an Annotated Abstract of the Wren Library, a Catalogue Raisonné of authenticated works, and a Summary of the 880 extant drawings. There are 157 illustrations reproducing, wherever possible, holograph material.

Author: Viktor Furst

Hardcover with dust jacket 

Edition/year: 1st, 1956, Lund Humphries

Condition: Minor wear on dust jacket, but otherwise in good vintage condition. 

Dimensions: 10.75" x 9" x 1"