The Uses of Art: Medieval Metaphor in the Michigan Law Quadrangle (Distinguished Senior Faculty Lecture) - Hardcover

Forsyth, Ilene H.

 
9780472095063: The Uses of Art: Medieval Metaphor in the Michigan Law Quadrangle (Distinguished Senior Faculty Lecture)

Synopsis

Long considered distinguished, the buildings of the Cook Law Quadrangle at the University of Michigan form one of the architectural jewels of the campus. In this well-illustrated book, the distinguished art historian Ilene H. Forsyth relates the story of the buildings' making, and she illuminates the meanings of the abundant figures and portraits that decorate the Law Quad's structures.
The volume's numerous illustrations help demonstrate the architectural connections between the Cook Law Quadrangle and monastic architecture in Europe. In addition, the author examines the use of medieval metaphors at Michigan as well as in collegiate architecture in the eastern United States, particularly at Princeton and Yale universities.
The Uses of Art demonstrates the way in which these collegiate quadrangles are given a quasi-monastic character, which is intended to express the ideals of study and reflection. This splendid volume will naturally be of interest to those who know the beauty of Michigan's Law Quadrangle. In addition, students of medieval life and letters, the history of American education, and the political history of the University of Michigan will also appreciate the book.

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