Overview
Frank Sear traces the evolution of architecture during the four centuries from the late Republic, when Roman building came of age, to A.D. 330, when Constantine moved the empire's capital to Constantinople. More than 200 photographs, maps, and drawings illustrate a discussion ranging over the extent of the empire, from Italy and North Africa and to the European and eastern provinces.Sear elucidates the complex development of Roman architecture by studying in detail the one site he feels to be the most significant and representative of a given period or province and by placing each site in its historical and cultural context. Incorporating the latest archaeological findings, Sear treats much more than stylist innovations; he carefully considers the building methods and materials used by Roman architects and engineers, and he pays close attention to the conditions under which the buildings were erected. This updated edition of Roman Architecture includes a full bibliography.Synopsis
In this comprehensive, accessible and beautifully illustrated book, Frank Sear traces the evolution of Roman architecture during the four centuries from the late Republic to AD 330, when Constantine moved the empire's capital to Constantinople.
With over 200 diagrams, maps and photos, this lucid and eminently readable account is a detailed overview of the development of architecture from Augustine to Constantine.
Covering building techniques and materials as well as architecture and patronage, features include:
* deployment of the most recent archaeological evidence
•consideration of building materials and methods used by Roman engineers and architects
•examination of stylistic innovations
•analysis of the historical and cultural contexts of Roman architecture
•detailed exploration of key Roman sites including Ostia and Pompeii.
In high demand since its initial publication, this book will not disappoint in its purpose to educate and delight those in the field of Roman architecture.
Editorials
From the Publisher
"Attractive and carefully presented. . . . It has the virtues of being clear, concise, and readable."-Times Literary Supplement"Frank Sear has entered the arena. . . . Beginning with a brief chapter on Republican construction, he follows chronologically with chapters on Italian projects by Imperial patrons, from Augustus through Hadrian. . . . Post-Hadrianic buildings are first introduced in the provinces, then succinctly summarized in a final chapter on the Late Empire. Separate sections cover Roman building types; architects, building techniques, and materials; and de rigueur analysis of the best preserved Roman cities, Pompeii and Ostia. . . . His descriptions of Roman structures are succinct and informative, encompassing archaeological as well as architectural data. The engineering aspects are particularly well explained, from the workings of a Roman bath to the erection of a lighthouse, and the explanations are supported by clear, well delineated drawings."-Design Book Review