The Noble Garden : Italian Landscape Design

'The Noble Garden' gives an enchanting insight into Italy's classical gardens and their fascinating relationship with the world of perfumery. These formal landscapes, based on Renaissance models, are characterised by the harmony and discipline of their forms, and the spectacular stately homes that they accompany. The book examines thirteen formal Italian gardens, revealing the beauty of their floral arrangements and geometric schemes. Paolo Perjone highlights the historic and symbolic importance of each garden, explaining the ways in which they 'reveal the dreams and desires of an age'. In the chapter titled 'Iris, Magnolia and Jasmine' he considers the scented plants that adorn the formal gardens and have inspired the creators of the distinguished women's perfume 'Le Nobili'. With over 120 magnificent illustrations, the book allows the reader to understand the splendour, elegance, and botanical exuberance of these noble creations. The volume examines the gardens of great historical buildings including Villa Reale di Marlia, Villa Gamberaia, and Villa Balbianello as well as a selection of unique contemporary gardens with classical influences. Containing a fascinating interview with renowned French perfumer Francois Demachy, 'The Noble Garden' is not simply a book about the design of Italian gardens, it is a work that captures their very essence.