THE STONES OF FLORENCE

by Mary McCarthy ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A

A companion volume to her Venice Observed, which made history as a unique art book. Now comes The Stones of Florence which is more history, perhaps than art, exploring as it does the roots of Italian art, much of which is found in Florence, in the history and the lives of men. From this angle the book is superb -- and any serious traveler in search of the significance behind the orgy of art to be found in Florence would do well to put this top of a study list. Florence is wholly individual, and Brunelleschi, the architect, is one factor. But there are others, and Miss McCarthy has done a creative job of making connections between the artists, the church, the state and the people who made history. But there is one thing one misses here -- and that is any semblance of a love for Florence today. There doesn't even seem to be a regretful and nostalgic quality in viewing Florence of yesterday. It lacks completely the passion that lovers of Florence feel for the city and views from a rather coldly intellectual severity.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: 0156027631

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harcourt, Brace

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1959

Categories: NONFICTION