Versailles

Rating:
Summary: NEWEST EDITION BETTER BOUND!!!!
Review: Five stars PLUS! I have a new edition and it is very well bound - no need to worry about it falling apart! If you've ever been to Versailles this book will mist you up! If you're planning a return trip this book will be your bible... It is amazing how inexpensive this book is when you consider the spectacular colour photos.

Rating:
Summary: The definitive Book On Versailles And The French Court!
Review: I knew when I first visited Versailles in 1986, that I did not see everything. When I found this book I was floored! It answered all my questions about the social life of Versailles, and gave me a thorough foundation on the history of the French Court. As a lover of historic architecture and garden design, I can honsetly say that this book is a DREAM!!! French Architectural historian Perouse de Montclos brillantly traces the history of Versailles from hunting lodge to this incrediable architectural masterpiece. The photographs are fabulous, the text first rate. My favorite section was the one devoted to the extensive grounds and fountains. If you are a collector of "coffee table" books on architecture, add this one to your collection!!

Rating:
Summary: The definitive Book On Versailles And The French Court!
Review: I knew when I first visited Versailles in 1986, that I did not see everything. When I found this book I was floored! It answered all my questions about the social life of Versailles, and gave me a thorough foundation on the history of the French Court. As a lover of historic architecture and garden design, I can honsetly say that this book is a DREAM!!! French Architectural historian Perouse de Montclos brillantly traces the history of Versailles from hunting lodge to this incrediable architectural masterpiece. The photographs are fabulous, the text first rate. My favorite section was the one devoted to the extensive grounds and fountains. If you are a collector of "coffee table" books on architecture, add this one to your collection!!

Rating:
Summary: Really deserves 10 stars! However, I must warn you...
Review: This is THE BEST book there is on Versailles (which is probably why its normally a hundred bucks!) There is only one problem I have ever had with the book and that is the poor physical quality. I had to order it twice because my first copy fell completely apart within a few weeks. Needless to say I was not happy at all when that happened. Every copy that I have seen (in libraries, other bookstores) has the same problem. Normally, I would not have tried again after that, but I HAD to have this book. My second one has also begun to separate from the binding, so I rarely read it... but when I do, I use **EXTREME** care. I think the main reason for this is the size and weight of the book, so if you decide to purchase it, keep that in mind. I recommend turning the pages *slowly* and not leaving it completely flat and/or open for any long period of time. Also, store it horizontally, NOT vertically... the pages are so heavy, they will end up tearing themselves out!

Rating:
Summary: Absolute perfection!
Review: Without a doubt, the most beautiful and informative book ever on the Palace of Versailles. Architectural history , decorative wonders, sumptuous furniture, this book explores it all! THE BOOK for all lovers of Versailles or eighteenth century French art.