Description
Book Synopsis: Most of the seven million people who visit the cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris each year probably do not realize that the legendary gargoyles adorning this medieval masterpiece were not constructed until the nineteenth century. The first comprehensive history of these world-famous monsters, The Gargoyles of Notre-Dame argues that they transformed the iconic thirteenth-century cathedral into a modern monument. Michael Camille begins his long-awaited study by recounting architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc’s ambitious restoration of the structure from 1843 to 1864, when the gargoyles were designed, sculpted by the little-known Victor Pyanet, and installed. These gargoyles, Camille contends, were not mere avatars of the Middle Ages, but rather fresh creations—symbolizing an imagined past—whose modernity lay precisely in their nostalgia. He goes on to map the critical reception and many-layered afterlives of these chimeras, notably in the works of such artists and writers as Charles Méryon, Victor Hugo, and photographer Henri Le Secq. Tracing their eventual evolution into icons of high kitsch, Camille ultimately locates the gargoyles’ place in the twentieth-century imagination, exploring interpretations by everyone from Winslow Homer to the Walt Disney Company.
Lavishly illustrated with more than three hundred images of its monumental yet whimsical subjects, The Gargoyles of Notre-Dame is a must-read for historians of art and architecture and anyone whose imagination has been sparked by the lovable monsters gazing out over Paris from one of the world’s most renowned vantage points.
Details
Discover the fascinating world of the gargoyles adorning Notre-Dame Cathedral with The Gargoyles of Notre-Dame: Medievalism and the Monsters of Modernity. This groundbreaking book unveils the hidden history behind these iconic creatures, revealing their true significance in transforming the thirteenth-century cathedral into a modern masterpiece. Written by acclaimed author Michael Camille, this long-awaited study is an essential read for art and architecture enthusiasts.
Delve into the captivating tale of how architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc's ambitious restoration project brought these mystical creatures to life in the nineteenth century. Designed and sculpted by the talented but undiscovered artist Victor Pyanet, these gargoyles became symbols of an imagined past, seamlessly blending modernity with nostalgia. Camille expertly unravels the reception and afterlives of these chimeras in the works of renowned artists and writers such as Charles Méryon, Victor Hugo, and Henri Le Secq. Witness their transformation into icons of high kitsch as they captivate the twentieth-century imagination.
With more than three hundred lavishly illustrated images, The Gargoyles of Notre-Dame offers a visual feast for the curious minds. Explore the intricate details of these monumental yet whimsical creatures as they captivate your imagination. Whether you are an art historian or simply fascinated by these lovable monsters, this book is a must-have addition to your collection.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and mesmerizing world of the gargoyles. Order your copy of The Gargoyles of Notre-Dame: Medievalism and the Monsters of Modernity today and embark on a journey through time and imagination.
Discover More Best Sellers in Sculpture
Shop Sculpture
What Is Art?: Conversations with Joseph Beuys
$21.89
Sculpture - What Is Art?: Conversations with Joseph Beuys
Here Be Dragons: The CF Sculpture Series Book (Volume 1) (Beyond Projects, 1)
$12.95
Sculpture - Here Be Dragons: The CF Sculpture Series Book (Volume 1) (Beyond Projects, 1)
