Brumfield (Slavic studies, Tulane Univ.; Lost Russia) is an expert on Russian architecture. His latest large-format book surveys the northwest tip of the nation, a great boreal forest surrounding the White Sea that has long been a place of exile and imprisonment. The author's many treks to its remote settlements have yielded photographs and descriptions of an extraordinary heritage of Russian Orthodox churches. From the 15th through the 19th century patronage by wealthy merchants, nobles, and the Tsar's court raised masonry cathedrals and monasteries, crowned with onion domes, in the wilderness. This largesse extended to elaborate frescoes, icons, and icon screens. The parish churches of the region are also notable for impressive expression using only pine logs, planks, and shingles. Brumfield discusses these varied architectural treasures by area, also describing how Soviet-era neglect and vandalism have caused some to fall into ruin. The author laments churches that have collapsed or burned down, but he notes restoration work being undertaken. VERDICT Brumfield's absorbing text and 200 color photographs are excellent. This book will appeal to readers interested in historic church architecture or traditional Russian village culture.
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