Architects : Brunelleschi's Cupola Past and Present of an Architectural Masterpiece
The Lives of the Artists (Oxford World's Classics) | 
 | 100% Recommended by our customers.
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Manufacturer: Mandragora
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List Price: $24.95
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- ISBN13: 9788885957916
- Condition: New
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Interesting two fold approach to examining a masterpiece
The book is divided into two parts and in the middle are several very good photographs and drawings of the cupola both interior and exterior including the area between the two domes.
The first part covers the history of the building, where the materials were gathered, how Brunelleschi came up with the design, how he oversaw the construction and workers to complete the project. A detailed chronology of the various repairs and modifications that have taken place since it's completion in 1436 is also examined. Part one concludes with a discussion of the Cupolas greater role in Florence and its impact and perception among artist, architects, writers, and others.
Part two is entirely devoted to examining the structure from an engineering perspective. This part may be very challenging for non-engineer types to really understand, as the analysis becomes quite technical and assumes the reader understands things such as bending moments, tensile stress, laws of elasticity, and more. That being said it does a great job in covering in detail the structural deformation of the cupola, the current tensile loads creating cracks above the four piers, a finite element analysis of the structure in its both cracked and un-cracked states, and methods for reinforcing the cupola so that structural integrity in maintained.
The information in part two alone justifies the purchase of this book, especially for engineering students and practicing engineers who also share an interest in history.
Note: This is not a hardcover book
I bought one of these books in paperback form at the museum store in Florence, Italy and ordered more from Amazon when I saw the description specified "hardcover." The books I received were the same as I had bought in Florence...paperback. Yes, the cover is a heavier-than-usual card stock, but it is NOT hardcover as we have come to think of a hardcover binding.
That said, if you have ever seen Brunelleschi's cupola in person, been awestruck by its detail and managed to survive the climb of hundreds of steps to the top for the spectacular views, you will find this book fascinating and instructive. It also makes a terrific gift for the architect or builder in your life.
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