Book Review

Louis Osman by Jenny Moore

Architect and Goldsmith.

Louis Osman's (1914-1996) works put him among the pre-eminent artists in his fields of endeavour. As a goldsmith his valuable and important works are held in church, civic and private collections throughout the world, while his architectural work places him among the most interesting practitioners of his day. This book provides a biography that combines the life of the man with a study of his work methods, illustrated with many examples taken from around the world. As the author relates: ‘This book will, I hope, enlighten those outside the world of architecture and goldsmithing who have never previously heard of him, revive memories in those who knew him, and inform those who are admirers of his work. His career spanned an interesting era for the architect and the goldsmith. Louis was taught architecture by Sir Albert Richardson (1880-1964) and Hector Corfiato (1893-1963) who ensured that their students gained a foundation in classical architecture. By the time the new architects practised, during the 1950s and '60s the fashion had changed and they were faced with clients who wanted buildings with asymmetric lines and more open appearance. This period also heralded a new trend for goldsmiths, who ‘made jewellery as well as tableware, and may have been industrial designers too.

Here is an essential book for all those interested in the art of goldsmithing, architecture and design during a period of great innovation and change in Britain.

Louis Osman – The Life and work of an Architect and Goldsmith (1914-1996) - £19.99

Halsgrove Direct Tel: 01884 243242

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