This book is a unique analysis and explanation of Le Corbusier's early education, his travels in Europe and the East, his buildings and his Purist paintings. As one of the key architects of the twentieth century, Le Corbusier continues to excite and intrigue architects, artists and students. He acquired his skills as a designer by a meticulous study of historical examples of art and architecture and although he wrote and published widely throughout his life, his early notebooks, diaries and sketches have never before been properly analysed and discussed. In bringing together the very best of his early sketches, Professor Baker explains how they relate to his first buildings. He also provides extensive evidence of the way John Ruskin influenced the young Charles-Edouard Jeanneret. The book is illustrated by over 300 of Le Corbusier's sketches and designs and is an important contribution to the understanding of this great architect.