Henry Van De Velde on Rational Beauty, Empathy and Ornament

This book explores the different aspects of Henry van de Velde's creative activity through a study of his writings and major works of his German period (1900-1916), including his unpublished manuscript on ornament. The study casts light on this major figure in Early Modern architecture, specifically on his aesthetic theory, centered around themes such as &quote;rational conception&quote; and &quote;empathy&quote;.This study focuses on this specific period of van de Velde's work, as it constitutes the period of his greatest activity as a designer, teacher, and architect. While examining the relation between his writings and his built works, it thematically addresses the different architectural works realized by the architect during this period.