The Picturesque Garden in Europe

(Paperback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Professor Hunt brings a wealth of knowledge and authority to this scholarly and richly illustrated book, which is essential reading for all garden historians and anyone with an interest in garden design. The 'picturesque' or 'natural' garden became the rage in 18th-century Europe. Inspired by painting, it also reflected changing attitudes to nature, and its intended appeal was not only to the eyes but to the heart and mind. Professor Hunt brings a wealth of knowledge and authority to this scholarly and richly illustrated book, which is essential reading for all garden historians and anyone with an interest in garden design. The author traces the rise of the picturesque garden in England and throughout Europe. He surveys a wide range of sites - Rousham, Stourhead, Kew, Hestercombe, The Leasowes, Hafod, Ermenonville, Dsert de Retz among others - and the contributions to their creation by both amateurs and professionals.

Reviews

'Superbly designed and illustrated throughout an excellent addition to an area of scholarship that has been but lightly covered' - Country Life
'A sophisticated study, beautifully illustrated' - The Architects Journal

Author Bio

John Dixon Hunt is Professor of the History and Theory of Landscape, School of Design, University of Pennsylvania, and editor of Studies in the History of Gardens and Designed Landscapes. He is the author of numerous books on garden history and theory, including Greater Perfections, also published by Thames & Hudson.