Illustrated Dictionary of Architecture
Illustrated Dictionary of Architectureis a compilation of more than 5,000 photographs and drawings in nearly 1,500 entries that define the technical and stylistic elements of both current and historical architecture. Some definitions stand alone, but most are accompanied by at least one illustration.Terms are arranged alphabetically. Definitions of similar elements are clustered together under one heading, for example,geodesic dome,interdome,melon dome, andbellshaped domeare all included underdome. All terms are listed in the alphabetical index at the end of the volume. Throughout the volume,seereferences guide the user to the correct term or cluster of terms.Definitions are brief, generally no more than one or two sentences for most elements. The clear photographs and drawings, all in black and white, convey the definitions of the elements better than hundreds of words could. Often more than one illustration is used to show variations.Doorway,for example, has six photographs of different historical and modern examples. The buildings used to illustrate architectural elements are not identified as to date, location, or architect.Two or three small black-and-white photographs are not enough to give more than the most general idea. There are no entries for architects. More comprehensive resources includeDictionary of Architecture and Construction[RBB O 1 93] andThe Penguin Dictionary of Architecture(4th ed., Penguin, 1991), not to mention the 34-volumeDictionary of Art[RBB D 15 96]. However,Illustrated Dictionary of Architectureis very useful in making clear just what is meant by terms such ascrocket ornament, impost,andrustication. It is an excellent resource for interested laypeople as well as professionals in the field and is recommended as a ready-reference tool for public, academic, and high-school libraries.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.