Biographical notes. -- Preface. -- South American architecture in the XVI and XVII centuries. -- South American sculpture in the XVI and XVII centuries. -- South American painting during the XVI and XVII centuries. -- South American architecture XVIII and early XIX centuries. -- South American sculpture in the XVII and early XIX centuries. -- South American painting in the XVIII and early XIX centuries. -- Index of main monuments. -- The architecture of Brazil in the XVI and XVII centuries. -- Brazilian architecture in the XVIII and early XIX centuries. -- Brazilian colonial sculpture. -- Index of main monuments

This comprehensive history follows the architecture, sculpture, and painting of Colonial south America from the 15th to the beginning of the 19th century, magnificent cathedrals replete with elaborately and gilded altarpieces, paneling, and furnishings are illustrated along with the austere fortresses and governmental palaces of the Spanish and Portuguese.

The authors have photographed seldom seen paintings sculptures from remote churches that testify in their Brilliance and pathos to the fervor of the artists, often newly-converted to the catholic faith.

The chronological text is in two sections, reflecting the often conflicting histories of the Portuguese and Spanish colonies. Chapters cover architecture, sculpture according to type, from altarpieces to free-standing figures, and Regional styles of painting.

This indispensable reference book includes over 800 photographs complemented by Maps, architectural plans and sections, the grocery and index of the principal monuments with lists of works to be found in each of them.