[.ca] Modernismo: Architecture and Design in Catalonia (ISBN 1580931111)

not just a paean to gaudi et al:
unbelievably beautiful! the impact of the Art Nouveau movement known in spain as Modernismo, had great bearing on the look of barcelona as a modernizing city in the early 20th century. the book is also a sharp tour guide of some of the great architectural works of a city that is brimming with incredible examples of the decorative arts. if youve been/youre going to barcelona or love nouveau/deco design-this is a must have!

Wow!:
I've always been interested in Gaudi, but was not aware of the variety and breadth of work done by other Catalonian architects around the same time. I don't know why this work is not better known, but should be studied by all who are interested in the arts--sculptors, painters, designers, musicians, and of course architects. While it is hard not to just look at the pictures, the text is interesting (although at times dense). But I found that if I didn't get too mired down most of the essays were worthwhile, especially the one that related to art and painting. As a former art history student I was surprised by how impressed I was with many of the paintings in the book--from artists I hadn't heard of. All in all this is a very high quality book and would be a great gift for anyone you know with an interest in art, architecture, modernism, or Spanish culture. Highly recommended.