The first volume in a three-volume set devoted to the history of decorative arts from the 15th to the early 20th century. It is a massive, beautifully produced work, translated from the original French edition (1993, Editio-Editions Citadelles & Mazenod, Paris), and covering the period from about 1480 to 1630. Each chapter focuses on one of the major ornamental motifs of the era interlace, rinceaux, grotesques, Moorish tracery, and strapwork and explores the applications of that motif in various countries and in all artistic genres, including architecture, painting, sculpture, tapestry, embroidery, bookbinding, ceramics, and metalwork. Of the 800 illustrations, 500 are in color. 10x12.5" Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.