The Lost Cities of the Mayas: The Life, Art, and Discoveries of Frederick Catherwood
Part adventure story, part archaeological study, part travel sketchbook, this handsomely illustrated book chronicles the discoveries of respected London artist Frederick Catherwood. In 1839, Catherwood and his American companion, John Lloyd Stephens, were the first Westerners to view the "lost" Mayan cities of the Yucatan Peninsula. Stephens's lively travel diaries, superbly illustrated by Catherwood, were then published in 1841 and 1843. Based on these journals and extensive research, Bourbon (coauthor of Ancient Rome: History of a Civilization That Ruled the World) has pieced together Catherwood's fascinating biography. Illustrated with more than 200 engravings, taken from Catherwood's original drawings, this work also reproduces Catherwood's Views of Ancient Monuments in Central America, Chiapas and YucatanDa rare color portfolio considered to be his best work. Catherwood's other adventures are detailed, including his trips to Europe and Egypt, as well as what is known of his personal life. Very few books have been written about Catherwood, and this one is reasonably priced, especially for its quality and size. It will appeal to anyone interested in exploration, architecture, or archaeology and is recommended for larger public libraries, academic libraries, and specialized collections.DSylvia Andrews, Indiana State Lib., IndianapolisCopyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.