Val d'Arno By: John Ruskin (1819-1900)
John Ruskin's Val d'Arno is a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany. With his distinctive prose and keen eye for detail, Ruskin paints a vivid picture of the region, allowing readers to immerse themselves in its rich history and natural beauty. The book takes us on a leisurely exploration of the Val d'Arno, gradually revealing the hidden treasures nestled within its rolling hills. Ruskin's poetic descriptions transport us to picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and vibrant cities, each brimming with their own unique charm. His keen observation of architecture, art, and cultural traditions brings the region to life, making it feel palpable and inviting. What sets Val d'Arno apart is the author's ability to seamlessly weave together different elements of the landscape, from the gentle slopes covered in olive groves to the majestic cathedrals adorned with exquisite frescoes. Ruskin's admiration and reverence for the natural world shine through as he emphasizes the harmony between the man-made and the organic, highlighting the importance of preserving these delicate balances. The book's narrative unfolds at a leisurely pace, giving readers an opportunity to savor the rich tapestry of Tuscany's past and present. While some may find the length and level of detail overwhelming at times, those with an appreciation for the region will find themselves engrossed in Ruskin's passionate exploration. Moreover, Val d'Arno not only celebrates the physical beauty of the region but also delves into the social and political implications of its cultural heritage. Ruskin delves into the socioeconomic struggles faced by the local communities and raises important questions about the role of art and architecture in society. His critique of industrialization and the consequences it poses for the landscape and its people adds another layer of depth to the book, provoking thought and reflection. However, there are instances where the author's viewpoints may feel outdated, particularly when it comes to gender roles and societal norms. It is important to approach these sections with a critical eye and contextual understanding, recognizing that Ruskin's perspective is embedded in the time in which he wrote. Overall, Val d'Arno is a masterpiece that showcases Ruskin's profound love for Tuscany and his remarkable ability to capture its essence through words. This book is a must-read for those who yearn to journey through the Italian countryside, as it will transport them to a world of art, culture, and natural beauty. First Page: VAL D'ARNO BY JOHN RUSKIN, M.A. LECTURE I. NICHOLAS THE PISAN LECTURE II. JOHN THE PISAN LECTURE III. SHIELD AND APRON LECTURE IV. PARTED PER PALE LECTURE V. PAX VOBISCUM LECTURE VI. MARBLE COUCHANT LECTURE VII. MARBLE RAMPANT LECTURE VIII. FRANCHISE LECTURE IX. THE TYRRHENE SEA LECTURE X. FLEUR DE LYS APPENDIX LIST OF PLATES. THE ANCIENT SHORES OF ARNO I. THE PISAN LATONA II. NICCOLA PISANO'S PULPIT III. THE FOUNTAIN OF PERUGIA IV. NORMAN IMAGERY V. DOOR OF THE BAPTISTERY. PISA VI. THE STORY OF ST. JOHN. ADVENT VII. " " " " " DEPARTURE VIII. "THE CHARGE TO ADAM" GIOVANNI PISANO IX. " " " " MODERN ITALIAN X. THE NATIVITY. GIOVANNI PISANO XI. " " MODERN ITALIAN XII. THE ANNUNCIATION AND VISITATION VAL D'ARNO TEN LECTURES ON THE TUSCAN ART DIRECTLY ANTECEDENT TO THE FLORENTINE YEAR OF VICTORIES GIVEN BEFORE THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD IN MICHAELMAS TERM, 1873 LECTURE I. NICHOLAS THE PISAN. 1. On this day, of this month, the 20th of October, six hundred and twenty three years ago, the merchants and tradesmen of Florence met before the church of Santa Croce; marched through the city to the palace of their Podesta; deposed their Podesta; set over themselves, in his place, a knight belonging to an inferior city; called him "Captain of the People;" appointed under him a Signory of twelve Ancients chosen from among themselves; hung a bell for him on the tower of the Lion, that he might ring it at need, and gave him the flag of Florence to bear, half white, and half red... Continue reading book >>

Val d'Arno By: John Ruskin (1819-1900)

John Ruskin's Val d'Arno is a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany. With his distinctive prose and keen eye for detail, Ruskin paints a vivid picture of the region, allowing readers to immerse themselves in its rich history and natural beauty.

The book takes us on a leisurely exploration of the Val d'Arno, gradually revealing the hidden treasures nestled within its rolling hills. Ruskin's poetic descriptions transport us to picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and vibrant cities, each brimming with their own unique charm. His keen observation of architecture, art, and cultural traditions brings the region to life, making it feel palpable and inviting.

What sets Val d'Arno apart is the author's ability to seamlessly weave together different elements of the landscape, from the gentle slopes covered in olive groves to the majestic cathedrals adorned with exquisite frescoes. Ruskin's admiration and reverence for the natural world shine through as he emphasizes the harmony between the man-made and the organic, highlighting the importance of preserving these delicate balances.

The book's narrative unfolds at a leisurely pace, giving readers an opportunity to savor the rich tapestry of Tuscany's past and present. While some may find the length and level of detail overwhelming at times, those with an appreciation for the region will find themselves engrossed in Ruskin's passionate exploration.

Moreover, Val d'Arno not only celebrates the physical beauty of the region but also delves into the social and political implications of its cultural heritage. Ruskin delves into the socioeconomic struggles faced by the local communities and raises important questions about the role of art and architecture in society. His critique of industrialization and the consequences it poses for the landscape and its people adds another layer of depth to the book, provoking thought and reflection.

However, there are instances where the author's viewpoints may feel outdated, particularly when it comes to gender roles and societal norms. It is important to approach these sections with a critical eye and contextual understanding, recognizing that Ruskin's perspective is embedded in the time in which he wrote.

Overall, Val d'Arno is a masterpiece that showcases Ruskin's profound love for Tuscany and his remarkable ability to capture its essence through words. This book is a must-read for those who yearn to journey through the Italian countryside, as it will transport them to a world of art, culture, and natural beauty.

First Page:

VAL D'ARNO

JOHN RUSKIN, M.A.

LECTURE I. NICHOLAS THE PISAN LECTURE II. JOHN THE PISAN LECTURE III. SHIELD AND APRON LECTURE IV. PARTED PER PALE LECTURE V. PAX VOBISCUM LECTURE VI. MARBLE COUCHANT LECTURE VII. MARBLE RAMPANT LECTURE VIII. FRANCHISE LECTURE IX. THE TYRRHENE SEA LECTURE X. FLEUR DE LYS APPENDIX

LIST OF PLATES.

THE ANCIENT SHORES OF ARNO

I. THE PISAN LATONA II. NICCOLA PISANO'S PULPIT III. THE FOUNTAIN OF PERUGIA IV. NORMAN IMAGERY V. DOOR OF THE BAPTISTERY. PISA VI. THE STORY OF ST. JOHN. ADVENT VII. " " " " " DEPARTURE VIII. "THE CHARGE TO ADAM" GIOVANNI PISANO IX. " " " " MODERN ITALIAN X. THE NATIVITY. GIOVANNI PISANO XI. " " MODERN ITALIAN XII. THE ANNUNCIATION AND VISITATION

VAL D'ARNO

TEN LECTURES

THE TUSCAN ART DIRECTLY ANTECEDENT TO THE FLORENTINE YEAR OF VICTORIES

GIVEN BEFORE THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD IN MICHAELMAS TERM, 1873

LECTURE I.

NICHOLAS THE PISAN.

1. On this day, of this month, the 20th of October, six hundred and twenty three years ago, the merchants and tradesmen of Florence met before the church of Santa Croce; marched through the city to the palace of their Podesta; deposed their Podesta; set over themselves, in his place, a knight belonging to an inferior city; called him "Captain of the People;" appointed under him a Signory of twelve Ancients chosen from among themselves; hung a bell for him on the tower of the Lion, that he might ring it at need, and gave him the flag of Florence to bear, half white, and half red... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – John Ruskin
Wikipedia – Val d'Arno

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac