Decorated Wooden Ceilings in Spain: A Collection of Photographs and Measured Drawings with Descriptive Text
New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, (1920). First edition. Hardcover. Elephant portfolio. (17 1/2 x 13"). x, 222 [2] pp., incl. LVI plates. Tan gilt-stamped lettering and vignettes on tan cloth map with string-ties. Inside cover and flaps with decorative green paper. Title-page with publisher's device in red and black. Magnificent portfolio of intricate wooden ceiling decor in Spain.
"That old wooden ceilings are more numerous in Spain than in other European countries is due not alone to the fact that many more were built. When France and England began to welcome new fashions, even to tear out or fur over fine old oak beams and panels, and in their place, put up plaster of Renaissance or baroque design, Spain, true to her tradition, kept her old ceilings and went on constructing new ones of the same sort. To-day, even allowing for the many notable Spanish ceilings destroyed by fire and actual vandalism, the number still to be seen is surprising. From hundreds of examples gathered by the authors the following have been selected as presenting the greatest variety of structural form and applied decoration." (Foreword). Stunningly illustrated with full-page reproductions of b/w photographs, as well as four color chromolithographs, and drawings of interior ceiling motifs and construction diagrams. Each plate has a description on facing page. The authors were corresponding members of the Hispanic Society of America.
Portfolio rubbed and sunned with string-ties only present at top, bottom and foredge with only frayed stumps. Front cover loosened at lower front joint. First two text signatures with creasing along spine, small closed tears. Title page lightly sprinkled. Five of the illustrated signatures reinforced with library tape at left edge. Portfolio in overall fair, interior in very good condition, except previously mentioned first two signatures. Fair to very good condition. Item #54124
Price: $950.00