Customer Reviews

Thomas Jefferson's Monticello: A Photographic Portrait

5 star:		(3)
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Photographer Robert Lautman has taken and assembled a remarkable set of photographs depicting scenes which a visitor would see upon touring the wonder that is called Monticello. Near the beginning of this book are two architectural drawings showing the first floor room layouts. Numbers appear on these drawings and they indicate the approximate camera positions for each black and white photographic plate.This is an outstanding photo-tour of Jefferson's custom built mansion. I would have given it a 10 rating had it not been for a few little features and omissions which detracted from the work. The major distraction centered on an obviously retouched photograph showing the surrounding hills as seen from Monticello. The photographer, in an attempt to show what the view might have looked like for Jefferson, had to manipulate the photograph to remove or minimize modern distractions such as houses, roads and other man-made edifices. While the intent to recapture a lost vision is a good one the execution wanting. ¨It would have been nice to see more than one photograph of the second floor rooms.

The photography in this book is amazing and gives a unique perspective on Monticello. I also really enjoyed the letters on opposite pages that provide personal insight and opinion about President Jefferson. Excellent addition to my collection.

Is it possible to conjure up the mood and atmosphere of an architectural gem, more than 200 years after its heyday? Can a book of photographs of an outstanding historical building be more than coffee table gloss? This book proves that both of these goals are acheivable. This book provides a glimpse into Jefferson's world as though the reader is a visitor, welcomed by the great man himself. The added bonus is that the plans are also included! What a treat!