Whipped Cream/ Huizen met pruik: And Other Delights of Amsterdam Architecture

* First book on this uniquely Dutch architectural feature * Reveals a rarely-seen aspect of Amsterdam'¬ ;just look up! Atop the lovely buildings of Amsterdam are one of the most delightful architectural features to be found anywhere: gables topped with blond shoulder-length wigs made of painted stone that look much like whipped cream. This book presents the first focused look at this whimsical architectural feature that was all the rage when Amsterdam was at the height of its power and prosperity. The city is known for its concentric canals, its distinctive bell towers and its city hall, but what is less observed are these decorative wigs depicting gods, dolphins, dogs, lions. Niek Biegman presents these visual treats as parts of an urban landscape which attracts millions of visitors each year from all over the world. Eventually these visitors go home again. This book will help them remember Amsterdam'¬"s particular architecture along with the canals and the streets where they experienced it.