The City as a Work of Art: London, Paris, Vienna

In this engaging, well-illustrated book, Donald J. Olsen re-evaluates the planning of private and public architecture in nineteenth century London, Paris, and Vienna as deliberate works of art which are a key to the cities' success as imperial capitals and reflect the values and social needs of their inhabitants. "Throughout, Olsen shows how the architectural task, social aspirations, and political strategies of the period produced urban environments that continue to meet the needs and delight the spirits of the present age. This book is urban and architectural history at its most provocative and most enjoyable"-- the publisher.