COSMATESQUE ORNAMENT. FLAT POLYCHROME GEOMETRIC PATTERNS IN ARCHITECTURE

Known for their remarkable mosaic work, the 'Cosmati' stoneworkers of the 12th and 13th centuries left a legacy of some of the most beautiful ornament in the world, distinguished by complex geometric patterns. Cosmatesque designs can be found today in churches in and around Rome and as far afield as Westminster Abbey, in intricate pavements and as ornament on church furniture. Cosmatesque Ornament is the definitive study of this unique form. Its distinctive geometric and mathematical basis are defined in over 300 pages of colour photographs. The volume provides a revealing look at the state of building in Rome after the fall of the Empire; an analysis of the symbolic meaning behind the quincunx - the quintessential Cosmatesque design; a comparison of different Cosmatesque sites; and a close examination of the pavement of the Schola Cantorum in the church of San Clemente, Rome. Art historians, designers, architects, mosaicists, archaeologists and all craftsmen who delight in ornament will want to keep this book to hand as an invaluable addition to both their personal and professional libraries.