Written In English
This is a beautiful and collectible 1882 edition of A Concise Glossary of Terms Used in Grecian, Roman, Italian, and Gothic Architecture by John Henry Parker, C.B., F.S.A., published by Parker and Co. in Oxford and London. Written during the height of the Victorian Gothic Revival, this glossary served as a practical and scholarly reference for students, architects, and antiquarians seeking to understand and accurately use architectural terminology. Parker, a prominent archaeologist and historian, compiled the glossary to make the complex vocabulary of classical and medieval architecture accessible to a growing audience eager to preserve, study, and emulate historical styles—especially those seen in cathedrals, churches, and public buildings. The book was part of a broader 19th-century movement to document and celebrate Britain’s architectural heritage with scholarly precision, and this revised sixth edition reflects the period's passion for cataloguing and restoring historic design elements.
The binding is a standout example of late Victorian craftsmanship, featuring a rich burgundy cloth cover with ornate gilt decoration on both the spine and front board. The front cover is adorned with a stylized acanthus leaf and scroll motif surrounded by the title in elegant script, while the spine showcases a decorative architectural column design along with the publisher’s emblem. The book is printed on high-quality laid paper, with a title page that uses both red and black inks for visual emphasis. A fold-out floor plan of Wells Cathedral adds historical depth and visual appeal to the volume. It’s a charming and visually striking production—equally valuable as a scholarly tool and a decorative piece.
Condition:
The cloth boards retain most of their color and vibrancy, with the gilt tooling remaining bright and attractive. The spine is gently sunned and shows minor softening at the head and foot, but remains structurally sound. There is light wear to the corners, consistent with age. Inside, the pages are clean and gently toned, with a previous owner’s signature on the title page. The fold-out plan is complete and in excellent condition. Altogether, this is a handsome and well-preserved example of a significant architectural reference, ideal for collectors, historians, or anyone with a love of historic design.
