Versailles [Hardcover]

Jean-Marie Perouse de Montclos (Author), Robert Polidori (Photographer)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1, 1991

This text traces the transformation of Louis XIII'S modest hunting lodge into the apotheosis of the French monarchy. Versailles' importance as the expression of European absolutism but also as an experimental design workshop is examined.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editorial Reviews

Language Notes

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: French

Product Details

• Hardcover: 424 pages
• Publisher: Abbeville Press; 1st edition (December 1, 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1558592288
• ISBN-13: 978-1558592285
• Product Dimensions: 12.5 x 10.7 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #106,182 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

80 of 80 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Really deserves 10 stars! However, I must warn you..., November 14, 2001

By 

"ssiquoyah" (NJ) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Versailles (Hardcover)

This is THE BEST book there is on Versailles (which is probably why its normally a hundred bucks!) There is only one problem I have ever had with the book and that is the poor physical quality. I had to order it twice because my first copy fell completely apart within a few weeks. Needless to say I was not happy at all when that happened. Every copy that I have seen (in libraries, other bookstores) has the same problem. Normally, I would not have tried again after that, but I HAD to have this book. My second one has also begun to separate from the binding, so I rarely read it... but when I do, I use **EXTREME** care. I think the main reason for this is the size and weight of the book, so if you decide to purchase it, keep that in mind. I recommend turning the pages *slowly* and not leaving it completely flat and/or open for any long period of time. Also, store it horizontally, NOT vertically... the pages are so heavy, they will end up tearing themselves out!

43 of 44 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The definitive Book On Versailles And The French Court!, August 9, 2000

By 

sherri j. thorne (brooklyn, new york United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Versailles (Hardcover)

I knew when I first visited Versailles in 1986, that I did not see everything. When I found this book I was floored! It answered all my questions about the social life of Versailles, and gave me a thorough foundation on the history of the French Court. As a lover of historic architecture and garden design, I can honsetly say that this book is a DREAM!!! French Architectural historian Perouse de Montclos brillantly traces the history of Versailles from hunting lodge to this incrediable architectural masterpiece. The photographs are fabulous, the text first rate. My favorite section was the one devoted to the extensive grounds and fountains. If you are a collector of "coffee table" books on architecture, add this one to your collection!!

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book would even make the Sun King proud, April 15, 2005

By 

Shannon Deason (Houston) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Versailles (Hardcover)

What an amazing book, it is nothing short of spectacular. The pictures are vivid and the book quality is of the highest caliber. The other reviewer was correct in noting that the reader has to been careful with this book, the pages are so heavy that it will pull from the binding if you are not careful when positioning the book. I have always had a facination with Versailles and this book really captures the chateaux, it makes you feel like you are stolling the gardens and taking in the sumptuous wonders of the palace. Unlike other books on Versailles this one is complete, it covers everything and in striking detail. I urge anyone with any interest in Versailles to buy this book, even used at 200 U.S., it is a bargain. I assure you you will not be disappointed in this book.