Michel Comte: Neoclassic

This book is Michel ComteÆs personal analysis of the neoclassical style. Employing an eclectic approach including original photos, reproductions of neoclassical treasures, and reworked images of masterpieces such as MichelangeloÆs PietÓ and Jacques-Louis DavidÆs The Coronation of Napoleon, Comte traces the classical aesthetic and its rebirth as the neoclassic throughout the ages. From the Parthenon to Gianni VersaceÆs designs, from Bernini to Albert SpeerÆs Reich Chancellery, the style has persisted and transformed itself again and again, as empires rose and fell around it. In ComteÆs words, the neoclassic demonstrates a ôdream of perfection,ö one we are seduced by even as we know its danger: ôHistory tells us that ægrandeurÆ is destined to fail.ö

Beauty remains. Michel Comte