Caen et Bayeux

The work offers a concise architectural and historical survey of the two Norman cities, presenting their principal monuments—abbeys, churches, cathedrals, palaces and public buildings—in roughly chronological order within their historical contexts. It combines archival research and archaeological observations to date structures, notes episcopal tombs and key sculptural and pictorial works, and discusses urban aspects and literary associations. Emphasis falls on stylistic development, the relationship between civic layout and religious institutions, and the descriptive interpretation of notable façades and interiors. Numerous engravings and photographs illustrate the text and support the author's effort to sketch the cities' artistic evolution rather than to provide exhaustive histories.