Doris Duke’s Shangri-La: A Hours in Paradise

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Donald Albrecht Curator

Thomas Mellins Curator

Skira Rizzoli (Rizzoli International Publications), New York, 2012, English

Nonfiction, Interior Design

9.5 x 12 inches, hardcover ,232 pages, 300 color and black-and-white illustrations

ISBN: 9780847838950

Suggested Retail Price: $55.00

From the Publisher. This inspiring book accompanies the first traveling exhibition about Doris Duke’s estate Shangri La and its influential synthesis of modernist architecture and Islamic art and design.

Situated on five acres of terraced gardens and pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu’s Diamond Head, Shangri La was the idyllic paradise of philanthropist Doris Duke, reflecting her personal passion for the art, architecture, and design of the Islamic world. The estate incorporates unique architectural features, such as carved marble doorways, jalis, and floral ceramic tiles, and the decor includes artifacts, such as silk textiles, jewel-toned chandeliers, and gilt and coffered ceilings, many collected during her travels. This volume presents an exclusive tour of Shangri La’s breathtaking interiors and landscape, including the splendid furnishings and art. Archival photographs of Duke and friends as well as correspondence and drawings provide a view into a lifestyle defined by the highest sense of aesthetics. Doris Duke’s Shangri La is sure to inspire both art and design lovers.

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