Please note; this e-book edition does not include the audio recordings of Venetian barcarole.Of all the trademarks of Venice; none is more ubiquitous than the gondola. In this beautifully illustrated collection; internationally bestselling author Donna Leon tells fascinating stories about these famous boats. First used in medieval Venice as an easily maneuverable getaway boat; the gondola evolved over the centuries into a floating pleasure palace that facilitated the romantic escapades of the Venetian elite. Now a tourist favorite; the gondola has never ceased to be a part of authentic Venice. Each boatrsquo;s 280 pieces are carefully fashioned in a maestrorsquo;s workshop—though Leon also recounts a tale of an American friend who decided to make a gondola all on his own; a feat that took five years to complete. But the gondola is a work of art well worth the labor; and no author is better poised to write about them than Leon; the “American with the Venetian heartrdquo; (Washington Post).
#1470309 in eBooks 2013-09-01 2013-09-01File Name: B00HU4ZTXC
Review
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. A Versatile Resource for Sacred Geometry!By Thomas IzaguirreThis book is a feast for the eyes and joy for the hands of those who would take advantage of the secrets within! It introduces the reader to the simple concepts of projective geometry and set theory as it has been applied to such devices as magic squares and Celtic knotwork. Beyond that; it is illustrated with fantastic line drawings in Art Nouveau style showing how these aesthetic sources can be applied not just to architecture; but costume and ornament design. Almost a century old since its first printing but still very timeless and relevant. Bragdons writing shows exuberance tempered with a respect for doing the craft right in an almost religious aspect. Very proud to have this in my collection!
