Description
The great survey of the American Greek Revival style, back in print and in an updated form for the first time since 1995. Stately Greek Revival architecture reached full flower in the 1820s, when impressive white temple-fronted facades with columns and pilasters were the prevailing style for new buildings throughout America. Roger Kennedy examines the social, political, and psychological forces that underpinned this opulent style. Kennedy’s text is complemented by full-color photographs that were specially commissioned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Magnificent examples of churches, banks, government buildings, and residences, as well as interiors, are featured. Included are a new preface and an updated appendix of every important surviving Greek Revival structure in the United States today.
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Originally published in 1989, this provocative work is much more than a look at an architectural style--specifically the Greek temple-form buildings that began to be built in this country beginning in the 1820s. The revival died down after the Civil War and then reappeared in a more grandiose manner in the 1890s, and later. Kennedy (former director the National Park Service, and director emeritus of the National Museum of American History) writes with inimitable style and an unconventional point of view, discussing what he views as the "myth of classical emulation" and setting the style in the context of US history, culture, and political economy. His text is accompanied by abundant photos and illustrations (190 color and 60 b&w). Appendices include a speculation on power and sex in Greek Revival America, questions about columns, and a gazetteer of important Greek revival buildings in the United States today. This reissue offers a new preface (other updates are not specified). The format is oversize: 9.25x11.5". Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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