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Inside Pompeii – A Financial Times Best Book of 2023
Luigi Spina
£100.00
A visually stunning, intimate photographic tour of Pompeii’s spaces, including many that have never been seen by the public
See InsideOverview
Pompeii, one of the most astonishing and well-preserved sites of classical antiquity, is also one of the world’s most visited architectural sites. This lavish volume takes readers on a tour of Pompeii through an array of visually compelling and original photographs by Italian artist Luigi Spina. Produced in partnership with the Parco Archeologico di Pompei, readers are expertly guided through the Roman city’s nine districts, including many hidden corners that are inaccessible to most visitors.
Pompeii’s architecture is a central feature of the images, which were shot at all times of day, in all seasons, and in natural light. Lacy peristyles and rows of column fragments give way to intimate, atmospheric interior spaces. Mosaic floors and beautiful – albeit fragmentary – wall paintings are reproduced with stunning fidelity and sensitivity. The book also includes an essay by Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii archaeological park, and several meditations on the history, architecture and natural beauty of the city. Inside Pompeii provides the wondrous experience of wandering through this remarkable site without ever leaving home.
Pompeii’s architecture is a central feature of the images, which were shot at all times of day, in all seasons, and in natural light. Lacy peristyles and rows of column fragments give way to intimate, atmospheric interior spaces. Mosaic floors and beautiful – albeit fragmentary – wall paintings are reproduced with stunning fidelity and sensitivity. The book also includes an essay by Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii archaeological park, and several meditations on the history, architecture and natural beauty of the city. Inside Pompeii provides the wondrous experience of wandering through this remarkable site without ever leaving home.
Reviews
'Not just the best book of photographs of one of the greatest – and most photographed – places on earth but, amazingly (and appropriately), a book one can live in'
Geoff Dyer
'In this hefty volume, Spina’s seductive photographs chronicle the lush interiors, the rich mosaics and frescoes and a vivid urban streetscape. A visual feast'
Best books of 2023 - Edwin Heathcote, Financial Times
'The photographs of Luigi Spina take readers on a journey through the classical architecture of the nine districts of Pompeii – including through areas off-limits to tourists. An essay by Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Pompeii Archaeological Park, adds insight to the visual splendour'
Apollo
'Few sites offer such a visceral glimpse of history… its citizens and their homes – decoration and all – preserved. But it is also frail. This is something photographer Luigi Spina captures in his new book, Inside Pompeii, after gaining access to areas closed off for years'
Wanderlust
'A captivating glimpse into the ancient world frozen in time. With its exquisite visuals and engaging narrative, it is a must-have addition to the library of history enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone who seeks to immerse themselves in the captivating world of ancient Pompeii'
Glass
'We know the story, we’ve possibly even visited the site, eerie and extraordinary. But this book offers a different lens. A series of still lives taken by the celebrated photographer of antiquities Luigi Spina takes as its focus the interiors. … The colourful vermillion interiors contrast with the monochrome exteriors, Vesuvius looming darkly in the distance'
The Times Luxx
Product Information
Book Details
Format: Hardback
Size: 31.8 x 24.5 cm
Extent: 480 pp
Illustrations: 448
Publication date: 19 October 2023
ISBN: 9780500027301
About the Author
Luigi Spina is an Italian photographer. He has published more than twenty books and has created photographic campaigns for institutions and museums throughout Europe.
