Architecture and Ornament: an Illustrated Dictionary

Architecture and Ornament is neither architecture nor ornament. It is a smart, robust 200‐page, highly functional dictionary of architectural features. No grande tome of high culture this; more a spotter’s guide to the built environment, a treasure‐trove for those of us confused by mullions, corbels and ashlar.

The major section of the book consists of line drawings of architectural features. Individual chapters cover windows; doors; walls; roofs; columns; stairs; ornaments and moldings [sic]; and arches, vaults and domes. The drawings, several to a page, give the name of the feature illustrated. Thus in Fig.63, Roof Shapes, there are 21 outline...