Juan de Herrera : architect to Philip II of Spain /

Much more than a "life and work" of the architect who is best known for the building of the Escorial, this book examines the role, process of design, construction, and meaning of architecture under the reign of Philip II. The paradox of Herrera's severe, classical style (estilo desornamentado), which makes its way from Spain to the Spanish Americas, is that it seems to defy the Renaissance notion of artistic individuality. And Herrera himself placed his appointment as royal architect secondary to his positions as "his majesty's servant" and "head chamberlain." Consequently, this book is to a large extent about royal patronage and historical circumstances, which gives it much importance to students of history as well as of architecture. The author writes authoritatively and with strong opinion that keeps the wealth of information clear and under firm control. The book is well illustrated with plans and drawings as well as photographs of the buildings. It is a worthy successor to Building the Escorial (1982) by George Kubler, who was the author's teacher. And these books are now complemented by Rosemarie Mulcahy's The Decoration of the Royal Basilica of El Escorial (1994). Upper-division undergraduate; graduate; faculty; general. Recommended for all academic libraries. C. W. Talbot; Trinity University