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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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neoclassicism
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Style which developed in the mid-18C from the earlier *Palladianism. It was inspired by increasing knowledge of classical antiquities in the era of the *Grand Tour and was also a reaction against the frivolity of *rococo. The move was towards geometric forms, sharp edges and historical accuracy. Robert *Adam returned from Rome in 1758 with the ideas which led to the very influential *Adam style. Developing at the same time, but later in its widespread architectural influence, was the *Greek Revival.
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In the decorative arts Greek vases were an inspiration to Josiah *Wedgwood, though he believed them to be Etruscan; and one of Wedgwood's designers, John *Flaxman, became the leading English sculptor in the neoclassical style. Among the many designers of furniture who aimed at exact re-creation of Greek or Egyptian examples, none aimed for more perfect accuracy than Thomas *Hope.
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