Beschreibung:

CHAMBERS, Sir William. Designs of Chinese Buildings, Furniture, Dresses, Machines, and Utensils. London: for the Author, Messrs. Dodsley, and others, 1757. 2 o (528 x 365 mm). Text in English, subscribers' list. 21 engraved plates by P. Fourdrinier (14), C. Grignon (3), P. Sandby (1) and 3 unsigned. Contemporary sprinkled calf spine gilt (light wear to joints and edges). FIRST EDITION. Berlin Kat. 2784 (French text); Harris 113; Fowler 85 (French text); Colas 592 (parallel French and English title and text); Lipperheide Le12 (French and English text); Millard 12. [ Bound with ]: CHAMBERS, Sir William. Plans, Elevations, Sections, and Perspective Views of the Gardens and Buildings at Kew. London: by J. Haberkorn for the author, 1763. 2 o. 43 engraved plates, 3 double-page, the architectural plates by J. Basire, C. Grignion, T. Major, T. Miller J. Müller, J. Noval, E. Rooker, F. Patton, P. and T. Sandby, and W. Woolett after Chambers, and the views of Kew after W. Marlow, J. Kirby, and T. Sandby (some light browning and spotting). FIRST EDITION. Between 1757 and 1762 Chambers erected several neo-Roman temples and a number of Turkish- and Chinese-inspired buildings at Kew, including the now-celebrated pagoda. In his essay concerning the union of art and nature in Designs of Chinese Buildings (London: 1757 see above), Chambers examined the power of imitation, surprise, and imagination upon the senses. Architecture and gardening he saw as the perfect vehicle for this, and the present work was produced as a celebration of the merit of his works and ideas in this direction. Fowler 87; Harris 121; Millard 14.