Royalty and architecture: visions and ambitions of European monarchs and nobility

Abstract

"It is well known that, throughout history, kings and queens have built castles, palaces and even entire cities to showcase their power. Less consideration has been given, however, to monarchs whose interest in architecture was so close that they might actually be called architects. Recent research on Gustav Ill of Sweden (1746-92) has shown that he was in fact the architect of a number of important building projects and gardens. His relative George III of Great Britain (1760-1820) was also a knowledgeable and skilled architectural draftsman. In this richly illustrated anthology, leading international scholars study the engagement of these and other European monarchs and members of the nobility with architectural practice from the seventeenth century to the present day. Contributors: Clive Aslet, Basile Baudez, Julius Bryant, John Goodall, Elisabeth Kieven, Jarl Kremeier, Rebecca Lyons, Magnus Olausson, Emily Roy, Frank Salmon, Ian Thompson, Simon Thurley, David Watkin."-- On back of cover.