Vulcan's Forge in Venus' City by Avery, Victoria;

The Story of Bronze in Venice, 1350-1650

Series: British Academy Monographs;

Publisher's listprice GBP 160.00
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72 240 Ft (68 800 Ft + 5% VAT)

72 240 Ft

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Estimated delivery time: In stock at the publisher, but not at Prospero's office. Delivery time approx. 3-5 weeks.
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Product details:

Publisher The British Academy
Date of Publication 15 December 2011

ISBN 9780197264966
Binding Hardback
No. of pages700 pages
Size 286x221x16 mm
Weight 2160 g
Language English
Illustrations 424 including 161 in colour, in a 176 page plate section

Short description:

This book tells, for the first time, the story of bronze in Renaissance Venice. Previously unpublished documents provide an invaluable resource for the study of bronze objects and the people who commissioned and made them. The numerous illustrations include recently-restored works of art, and unpublished historical photographs.

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Long description:

Between 1350 and 1650, a vast number of bronze objects, both large and small, decorative and functional, were produced in Venice for domestic consumption and for the export market. Whether unique works of art specifically commissioned from renowned sculptors by wealthy patrons, or low status artefacts mass-produced by founders for speculative sale in their shops, Venetian bronzes are distinguishable from those made at the same time in other centres by the great beauty and variety of their form, their rich ornamentation, and by their generally high quality.

Based on a wealth of unpublished documents and newly available scientific data obtained during recent conservation projects, this book tells the story of bronze-its production, placement and purpose-in Venice through the objects themselves and the people who commissioned, made and owned them. It reveals the location and purpose of key independent foundries in the city centre, as well as the state-owned foundries at the Arsenal. It sheds light on the identities of the founders, their daily lives and workshop organisation, and tracks the rise and fall of the most important dynasties, their successful collaborations and fierce rivalries. The genesis and creation process of certain significant bronze masterpieces is discussed, together with a number of long-forgotten casting disasters and abortive commissions.

The text and documentary appendix are enhanced by lavish illustrations, which include newly commissioned photographs of recently-restored works of art, and unpublished historical photographs.

Victoria Avery has succeeded admirably in her purpose, and no one interested in the history of Venetian bronzes will ignore her important book.