Description
Book SynopsisPatterns of Russia shows how the public face of Russia developed and evolved through its distinct architecture, its astonishing art and its varied spaces. What emerges is a clear picture of how Russians fashioned their identity and the national monuments associated with it, in their setting - the Russian landscape - as well as elements of traditional material culture. Written in a concise and jargon-free style, tellingly illustrated, this book will appeal to all those with an interest in the history and culture of this complex country.
Trade Review"Any lively mind will have something to learn from this book. Students will welcome its range and clarity; scholars will find it provocative and illuminating; and the author's vivacious style brings the vast and often unfamiliar cultural world of the early Russian lands within the reach of all interested readers."--Simon Dixon, Sir Bernard Pares Professor of Russian History, University College London "With its beautiful and unusual illustrations, Patterns of Russia sheds light on the historical development of Russian national self-awareness through its art, literature, and architecture. This is not a geography of Russia, nor a history of Russian art or Russian spirituality. . . . It is a study rather of the belief-systems and the symbolic dynamic through which the Russian people have formed their identity."--Ann Shukman, writer and translator
Table of ContentsForeword 1 North, South, East, West: The Spaces of Russia 2 Built Environment 3 Art and Artists of Old Russia 4 Art and Place 5 `Holy Russia' and Its Jerusalems 6 Petersburg: Foundation and Fate 7 Ultimate Russia
