Missionary friars arriving in Mexico in the early 16th century introduced European architectural and visual art styles to those of the native people. Under the direction of the friars, 400
conventos were built in Mexico during a 75-year period, as special architectural theaters for use in their proselytizing. The native Indian artisans who built these structures also incorporated
their own tastes and pictorial traditions. Edgerton (art history, Williams College, Williamstown, Massachusetts) analyzes the blend of European and native styles in these structures, which
represent a unique contribution to the worldwide spread of the Italian Renaissance. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
