 |
 |
   |
|
|
|
|
Greene & GreeneEditions
Review
Though the Greenes never visited Asia, they nonetheless translated the Oriental traditions of simplicity and elegance, which in so many ways coincided with the ethos of the Arts and Crafts Movement in Europe. This cross-fertilisation resulted in a series of domestic dwellings, most of them in California, with low, sloping roofs with long overhangs in the bungalow tradition, marked by intricate joinery. They were also distinguished by specially designed furniture of great elegance and craftsmanly detail, with light fittings, lanterns, stained glass and rugs to fill the generous spaces. The Blacker and Gamble houses, both completed in 1909 and both situated in Pasadena, mark the apogee of their work. Like the Prairie-style homes of Frank Lloyd Wright which they predate, the Greenes’ oeuvre certainly had an immense influence on succeeding generations of architects, although neither Charles nor Henry elected to play into the hands of Modernism, and remained stubbornly on the periphery of changing trends after their partnership dissolved in 1911. There is no recorded hint of conflict between these gentlemanly professionals and each continued to consult the other in their subsequent individual careers. Happily, they both lived until the 1950’s, long enough to sense the genuine revival in appreciation of their work. It can no longer be considered that the Greenes are forgotten geniuses (this is the third major study in five years), but Edward R Bosley, who is Director of the Gamble House (now a study centre for the University of Southern California), has produced an enduring memorial worthy of the brothers’ high standards. - review by Stewart Grimshaw |
|
John Sandoe [Books] Ltd |
The collaboration of brothers Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene at the beginning of the 20th Century produced some of the most sensuous and beautifully crafted architecture ever created in America.
Fax:
020 7581 2084