16.    CARRASCO, Benito J.   PARQUES Y JARDINES.      Buenos Aires: Talleres Peuser,   1923.          First and only edition. Carrasco was a guiding figure in the development of garden design and urban planning in Argentina in the early decades of the twentieth century, and is recognized as the leading early theorist of the Argentine school of landscape architecture. He studied under Carlos Thays and later succeeded him as director of Parks for the city of Buenos Aires before becoming head of the Department of Parks and Gardens at the University of Buenos Aires. Although he wrote numerous articles for journals and governmental reports, PARQUES Y JARDINES is his major published work and the most complete summation of his views. Heavily illustrated, it begins with an historical overview of the evolution of European gardens and a presentation of general principles of composition for what he identifies as the three main garden styles: classical, irregular ("apaisados") and mixed. Further chapters discuss the application of these principles, including discussions of garden ornament, water, floral decoration, tree plantation, streets, etc. Most of the final quarter of the book is devoted to urban design, and it is here that Carrasco makes his strongest statement, including illustrations from some of his own projects in and around Buenos Aires, and impassioned arguments in favor of his own vision for the future planning of that city. Scarce, only 2 copies listed in OCLC.   4to (25.1 x 18 cm); 182 pp. including numerous illustrations from photographs, drawings and plans (several folding).            Original paper-covered boards, lightly soiled and rubbed. ***Lengthy presentation inscription signed by the author on half title. $500.00

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