Architektur-Plastik
Stuttgart: Julius Hoffmann, 1912. First edition. Loose leaf. Elephant Folio. (2) 45 plates. Original green quarter cloth over tan paper-covered boards portfolio with black lettering, ruling and publisher's device on cover. Title page with publisher's device. Introduction on the ornament is a scathing critique of all styles since the Renaissance, claiming that the status quo at the beginning of the 20th century asks for a new direction, that is to say creating ornamental design from scratch. Gross suggests the new direction will have to observe the study of nature, the feeling for decorative effect, and the organic classification of the ornament: "We have to allow ourselves to be stimulated by the various decorative effects, process that with one's own study of nature, and, most importantly, integrate the results organically into the from challenge at hand." The work beautifully illustrates the transition in architectural ornamental motifs of the fin de siecle. The forty-five plates with ornamental imagery, up to six images per plate, are produced in tinto gravure by Max Dethlefs, Stuttgart. Text in German. Portfolio with light wear along edges, medium size abrasion on back cover. Title page with light wear along edges. Very good condition. Item #47458
Price: $175.00