The V&A Book of Western Ornament

Ornament surrounds us: on buildings, clothes and accessories, cars, and even computers. This easy-to-use reference, complete with rich illustrations, tells the story of European ornament from 1450 to the present; from the Renaissance to the consumer culture of today; from gargoyles to cell phones. Highly accessible, the book offers basic definitions and examples that contribute to a clearer understanding of this ever-popular subject.