Origins invention revision : studying the history of art and architecture One of the most distinguished scholars in the fields of architectural history and theory today James Sloss Ackerman is best known for his work on Italian masters such as Palladio and Michelangelo. In this collection of essays Ackerman offers insight into his formation and development as a scholar as well as reflections on a range of topics. Concise lucid and original this book presents deep syntheses alongside innovative approaches and a broadening geographical and chronological reach. Ackermans enduring fascination with architecture was one unforeseen consequence of his military service in World War II and the collection includes a revealing account of his part in the liberation of Milan as a soldier in the Fifth American Regiment. These essays represent a unique personal journey from the Italian Renaissance to the classical architecture of India and the work of Frank Gehry at the new museum of the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris