Approaching the study of design from a structural point of view; this classic handbook tells the designer how to construct hundreds of patterns from all periods and styles. Dr. Christie analyzes the elemental composition of patterns; and shows how coherent organization is achieved in each of the patterns he describes and illustrates. He then establishes basic principles; derived from the unity of all great ornament; which; if followed; will assure the success of any design.In the opening chapters the author describes various basic methods of organizing ornament; and explains the formal classification of ornament into distinct categories. He covers the six major categories of design separately; showing how numerous variations are made: traditional plant and animal devices; realistic plants and animals; straight striped patterns; waved and chevron striped patterns; cross-band patterns; and interlaced and counterchanged cross-band patterns. In another chapter he shows how some isolated devices of formal design mdash; granular texturings; disk and ring devices; arabesques; and more mdash; are constructed. He shows how design is created by rhythmic expansion mdash; how an element like a spiral or a swastika; for example; can be expanded in horizontal; vertical; and diagonal progressions to create the rhythmic scheme that constitutes a formal design.The book contains more than 400 illustrations; including the authors drawing of designs as well as photographs of actual patterns in textiles; ceramics; jewelry; and more mdash; a wealth of valuable pictorial material that is not readily available. As a unified discussion of the nature of patterns; this book will be of great interest to anyone concerned with handicrafts or the fine arts.
#2029360 in eBooks 2013-02-19 2013-02-19File Name: B00A73IW1O
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Fantastic; enjoyable analysis of acclaimed French filmmaker; genius behind The Swimming Pool 8 WomenBy GroundhogIf you have never heard of Ozon but love unique films that explore themes of sexual liberationi; or if you are an Ozonophile....you need to get this book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this wonderful contextualization and analysis of the filmmakers works. Schilt does a superb job of explaining some of Ozons more opaque creations to an English speaking audience; with enough examples to convince this reader that Ozon is indeed one of the leaders of feminist filmmaking today. I know little of French cinema (except as an casual fan); and found the book very readable. The writing will appeal to cinema buffs and scholars of French film; but I think it would be especially wonderful in college/grad level classes.