Portrait Of Canada

A Canadian architectural and cultural marvel, Canada's Parliament Building, or Centre Block, has been the focal point of Canadian parliamentary democracy for much of the past century. As the Parliament Building, with its iconic gothic revival Peace Tower, approaches its 100th anniversary, it will be closed for a decade or more for much-needed renovations. Although an entire generation will miss the opportunity to see this building's wonders, A Portrait of Canada's Parliament provides a permanent written and illustrated record of it at this watershed moment. With spectacular photographs by William McElligott and inspiring thematic articles by established professional subject specialists, this volume collectively paints a portrait of one of Canada's greatest symbols from its origins into the present and on to the plans for its future. The Parliament Building, which contains both the Senate and the House of Commons, is unveiled from various angles: the astonishing history, the visionary architects, the lofty aspirations, the democratic functions housed within, the urban features, the picturesque landscape, the powerful architecture, the engineering ingenuity, the decorations' symbolic meanings, the harsher memories, the evolution echoing a growing nation, and the challenges, opportunities, and technological innovations for the most ambitious architectural renovation in Canada's history - a revitalized Parliament Building fit for the twenty-first century and beyond. This portrait provides, for the first time, an intimate analysis of the character and spirit of Canada's Parliament, and how the building's design, contents, and setting have performed their role so successfully for successive generations of Canadians.

Morton, one of Canadas most respected historians has given us a short celebration of Canada with a depth of insight that truly helps us to know one another and all the regions of the country.

A stunning visual exploration of Canada’s most recognized building accompanied by a comprehensive study of its history, in a coffee-table worthy volume. The Centre Block, the iconic parliament building that has come to be Canada’s foremost representation, was closed in 2018 and will remain closed for at least a decade for a complete renovation and restoration. During that time, hundreds of thousands of Canadians and visitors to Canada will miss the opportunity to tour the building and view its architecture and symbolic artwork. With original photographs from noted architectural photographer William P. McElligott, historical images, and thematic articles written by established subject specialists, A Portrait of Canada’s Parliament/Un Portrait du Parlement du Canada provides a contemporary look at one of the nation’s greatest symbols and documents and analyzes the context, landscape, heritage, and structure of this unique national icon, from its origins to its present and to its future ahead. This gorgeous volume, presented in English and French, will be treasured by all those with an interest in Canada’s architectural and parliamentary history.