A MONOGRAPH OF THE WORK OF MELLOR MEIGS & HOWE

New York: The Architectural Book Publishing Co., 1923. First edition Folio, 212 pages, bound in original blue cloth with gilt spine titles. A most impressive study of the architectural firm of Mellor, Meigs & Howe, with photographic images as well as architectural drawings of some of their most important commissions. The preface was written by Owen Wister in praise of the mission of the architects of this prestigious concern to allow "life to determine the character of a building". This particular volume is concerned primarily with residential and farm buildings displaying the firm's dedication to standing against the commercialization of art and architecture by applying the deepest philosophical and aesthetic elements of the Arts and Crafts movement. Indeed, the influence of the British architectural principles seen in the work of Bailey Scott, Philip Webb and others is in keen evidence. The book retains its original dust wrapper, exhibiting some light wear but complete and bright. This title has been reprinted but the new version is a sad representative of this substantial, handsome work. Quite scarce in this condition.