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Brunelleschi s Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture
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Anyone alive in Florence on August 19, 1418, would have understood the significance of the competition announced that day concerning the city s magnificent new cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, already under construction for more than a century. Whoever desires to make any model or design for the vaulting of the main Dome?shall do so before the end of the month of September. The proposed dome was regarded far and wide as all but impossible to build: not only would it be enormous, but its original and sacrosanct design eschewed (shunned) the flying buttresses that supported cathedrals all over Europe. The dome would literally need to be erected over thin air.Of the many plans submitted, one stood outa daring and unorthodox solution to vaulting what is still the largest dome (143 feet in diameter) in the world. It was offered not by a master mason or carpenter, but by a goldsmith and clock maker named Filippo Brunelleschi, then 41, who would dedicate the next 28 years to solving the puzzles of the dome s construction. In the process, he did nothing less than reinvent the field of architecture.Brunelleschi s Dome is the story of how a Renaissance genius bent men, materials, and the very forces of nature to build an architectural wonder we continue to marvel at today. Denounced at first as a madman, Brunelleschi was celebrated at the end as a genius. He engineered the perfect placement of brick and stone, built ingenious hoists and cranes (some among the most renowned machines of the Renaissance) to carry an estimated 70 million pounds hundreds of feet into the air, and designed the workers platforms and routines so carefully that only one man died during the decades of constructionall the while defying those who said the dome would surely collapse and personal obstacles that at times threatened to overwhelm him. This drama was played out amidst plagues, wars, political feuds, and the intellectual ferments of Renaissance Florenceevents Ross King weaves into the story to great effect, from Brunelleschi s bitter, ongoing rivalry with the sculptor Lorenzo Ghiberti to the near capture of Florence by the Duke of Milan. King also offers a wealth of fascinating detail that opens windows onto fifteenthcentury life: the celebrated traditions of the brickmaker s art, the daily routine of the artisans laboring hundreds of feet above the ground as the dome grew ever higher, the problems of transportation, the power of the guilds.Even today, in an age of soaring skyscrapers, the cathedral dome of Santa Maria del Fiore retains a rare power to astonish. In telling the story of the greatest engineering puzzle of the Renaissance and one of the world s architectural marvels, Ross King brings its creation to life in a fifteenthcentury chronicle with twentyfirstcentury resonance.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book contains one hundred ninety-four pages. This comprehensive work explores the life and achievements of Filippo Brunelleschi.
- Q: What is the binding type of the book? A: The book features a hardcover binding. This durable format enhances the book's longevity and is suitable for frequent handling.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point three inches in length, zero point eight eight inches in width, and eight point seven four inches in height. These dimensions make it easy to handle and store.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Ross King. He is known for his engaging narratives about art and architecture.
- Q: What is the main theme of the book? A: The main theme revolves around the architectural innovations of Filippo Brunelleschi. The book details how he overcame challenges to construct a groundbreaking dome.
- Q: Is this book suitable for children? A: Yes, this book is suitable for older children and young adults. It provides historical context and engaging storytelling for those interested in architecture.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store the book upright on a shelf in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent damage to the cover and pages.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can clean the book gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaners that may damage the cover or pages.
- Q: What age group is this book recommended for? A: This book is recommended for readers aged twelve and up. Its themes and language are suited for a more mature audience.
- Q: Is this book part of a series? A: No, this book is a standalone title. It focuses solely on Brunelleschi and his architectural contributions.
- Q: What makes this book unique? A: This book uniquely combines historical narrative with architectural insight. It provides a detailed look at Brunelleschi's innovative methods.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or replacement. Most sellers have policies in place for such issues.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: No, books typically do not come with a warranty. However, check the return policy of the seller for any guarantees.
- Q: How can I learn more about the author? A: You can find more about Ross King through literary websites and interviews that discuss his works and contributions to art history.
- Q: What are some other books by Ross King? A: Some other notable books by Ross King include 'Brunelleschi's Dome' and 'Leonardo and the Last Supper.' They explore significant themes in art and architecture.