Description

Large folio hardcover volume bound in red cloth stamped in gold on front cover and publisher’s glossy matching red dust-jacket. 157 text pages. Illustrated with 112 full page color plates. Reprint edition, first edition, first printing thus (1972) by Van Nostrand Reinhold Company. Owen, a British architect, first published his “Grammar” in 1856 and it was reprinted twice more in 1910 and 1928. A monumental work, he sought to compile a global and historical survey of decoration and ornamental motifs from those of savage aboriginal tribes, through ancient Egypt, Assyia and Persia to Celtic, Medieval, and Elizabethan examples, et alia. While some of his terminology is out-dated and reflects the prejudices of Victorian era Europe, he propounds the revolutionary thesis, for his time, “that non-Western cultures possess sophisticated design intelligence.” No previous ownership marks. A clean, fresh and unmarked copy in non clipped dust-jacket with no wear or chips. Near fine in a near fine dust-jacket. Due to size and weight media mail only available, customers should contact us for quotes on other shipping options.