Versailles

by Jean-Marie Pérouse de Montclos

Book Overview

In this opulently illustrated volume, the eminent French architectural historian Jean-Marie Perouse de Montclos traces the transformation of Louis XIII's modest hunting lodge into the fabulous chateau... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0896600521
• ISBN13: 9780896600522
• Release Date: January 1994
• Publisher: Artabras Publishers
• Length: 160 Pages
• Weight: 3.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 10.9" x 13.1"

Customer Reviews

Wanna see Versailles but don't want to fly? Buy this book!

I received this book as a present, too add to my building library on books on European monarchy's and this book has quickly become one of my favorites. It is massive and I would recommend setting it on a flat surface, coffee or end table would be best I think. It is filled with photos of random nooks and crannies within Versailles and of course photos and things we are all familiar with, like the Petit Trianon and all the beautiful fountains or gardens. It also includes a few photos that I find almost haunting or eerie, pathways engulfed in fog you almost expect someone to appear in it. I think this book would be great for any one who loves beautiful photographs or enjoys all things French.

This book would even make the Sun King proud

What an amazing book, it is nothing short of spectacular. The pictures are vivid and the book quality is of the highest caliber. The other reviewer was correct in noting that the reader has to been careful with this book, the pages are so heavy that it will pull from the binding if you are not careful when positioning the book. I have always had a facination with Versailles and this book really captures the chateaux, it makes you feel like you are stolling the gardens and taking in the sumptuous wonders of the palace. Unlike other books on Versailles this one is complete, it covers everything and in striking detail. I urge anyone with any interest in Versailles to buy this book, even used at 200 U.S., it is a bargain. I assure you you will not be disappointed in this book.

Really deserves 10 stars! However, I must warn you...

This is THE BEST book there is on Versailles (which is probably why its normally a hundred bucks!) There is only one problem I have ever had with the book and that is the poor physical quality. I had to order it twice because my first copy fell completely apart within a few weeks. Needless to say I was not happy at all when that happened. Every copy that I have seen (in libraries, other bookstores) has the same problem. Normally, I would not have tried again after that, but I HAD to have this book. My second one has also begun to separate from the binding, so I rarely read it... but when I do, I use **EXTREME** care. I think the main reason for this is the size and weight of the book, so if you decide to purchase it, keep that in mind. I recommend turning the pages *slowly* and not leaving it completely flat and/or open for any long period of time. Also, store it horizontally, NOT vertically... the pages are so heavy, they will end up tearing themselves out!

Absolute perfection!

Without a doubt, the most beautiful and informative book ever on the Palace of Versailles. Architectural history , decorative wonders, sumptuous furniture, this book explores it all! THE BOOK for all lovers of Versailles or eighteenth century French art.

The definitive Book On Versailles And The French Court!

I knew when I first visited Versailles in 1986, that I did not see everything. When I found this book I was floored! It answered all my questions about the social life of Versailles, and gave me a thorough foundation on the history of the French Court. As a lover of historic architecture and garden design, I can honsetly say that this book is a DREAM!!! French Architectural historian Perouse de Montclos brillantly traces the history of Versailles from hunting lodge to this incrediable architectural masterpiece. The photographs are fabulous, the text first rate. My favorite section was the one devoted to the extensive grounds and fountains. If you are a collector of "coffee table" books on architecture, add this one to your collection!!