Architecture for the New World & Australian Embassy (SIGNED First Editions)

This lot includes two books on Harry Seidler by Peter Blake. Both are signed and inscribed to Paul Reid by Harry Seidler, dated 1974 & 1979. A perfect gift for any architecture enthusiast.

Needing very little introduction, particularly for those of us in Sydney, Harry Seidler was considered to be the leading exponent of the Modernist and Bauhaus movements in Australian architecture. His consistent criticism towards the developmental approaches of the planning authorities in Sydney ensured much controversy throughout his long career. Despite this, Seidler's genius in design led him to be the recipient of many architectural awards throughout the 20th century.

These two books, both authored by renowned architectural critic and writer Peter Blake, present two facets of Seidler's legacy. Architecture for the new world contains an accounting of 25 years of Seidler's work, described and profusely illustrated in colour and monochrome. Australian Embassy is focused primarily on the titular building. It contains text in both English and French, as well as plans for the iconic Australian Embassy in Paris. Also features photography by Max Dupain.

Blake, Peter. Architecture for the new world. The work of Harry Seidler. First Edition. Sydney: Horowitz Australia, (1973). Square 4to. Original grey publisher's cloth in original unclipped dust jacket. Pages: 264.

Overall condition: excellent. Dust jacket unclipped, some faint markings to dust jacket covers and very minor foxing to fold-ins. Hardcover bindings in near fine condition, square and tight with a tough of rubbing at extremities. Contents in fine condition, free from age-related markings. Fresh and bright. A beautiful copy.

Blake, Peter. Harry Seidler, Australian Embassy. Ambassade d'Australie Paris. First Edition. Sydney: Horowitz Group Books PTY. LTD., (1979). Folio. Original softcover wrappers. Pages: 56.

Overall condition: very good. Watermarking to front cover, with some rubbing present. Some faint markings to prelims, otherwise contents in fine condition. Fresh, bright, and clean.

Provenance: From the library of Paul & Wendy Reid. Paul Reid is hailed as one of the minds who helped to shape Canberra. As Chief Architect at the NCDC, Paul's most important role was the organisation and construction of the New Parliament House. He also had a sizeable involvement with all of the major works associated with Canberra. His legacy remains celebrated in various forms at multiple universities within Australia.

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This book is currently not on display in store.

If you would like more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact: rarebooks@harryhartog.com.au