Title
Twelve Caesars: Images Of Power From The Ancient World To The Modern (The A. W. Mellon Lectures In The Fine Arts, 60),Used
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From the bestselling author of SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome, the fascinating story of how images of Roman autocrats have influenced art, culture, and the representation of power for more than 2,000 yearsWhat does the face of power look like? Who gets commemorated in art and why? And how do we react to statues of politicians we deplore? In this bookagainst a background of todays sculpture warsMary Beard tells the story of how for more than two millennia portraits of the rich, powerful, and famous in the western world have been shaped by the image of Roman emperors, especially the Twelve Caesars, from the ruthless Julius Caesar to the flytorturing Domitian. Twelve Caesars asks why these murderous autocrats have loomed so large in art from antiquity and the Renaissance to today, when hapless leaders are still caricatured as Neros fiddling while Rome burns.Beginning with the importance of imperial portraits in Roman politics, this richly illustrated book offers a tour through 2,000 years of art and cultural history, presenting a fresh look at works by artists from Memling and Mantegna to the nineteenthcentury American sculptor Edmonia Lewis, as well as by generations of weavers, cabinetmakers, silversmiths, printers, and ceramicists. Rather than a story of a simple repetition of stable, blandly conservative images of imperial men and women, Twelve Caesars is an unexpected tale of changing identities, clueless or deliberate misidentifications, fakes, and often ambivalent representations of authority.From Beards reconstruction of Titians extraordinary lost Room of the Emperors to her reinterpretation of Henry VIIIs famous Caesarian tapestries, Twelve Caesars includes fascinating detective work and offers a gripping story of some of the most challenging and disturbing portraits of power ever created.Published in association with the Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts, National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC
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- Q: How many pages are in Twelve Caesars? A: This book contains three hundred ninety-two pages. It provides an extensive exploration of Roman autocrats and their artistic representations.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type is paperback. This makes it lightweight and portable for easy reading.
- Q: What are the dimensions of Twelve Caesars? A: The book measures five point five nine inches in length, one point one inches in width, and eight point five eight inches in height. These dimensions make it easy to handle and store.
- Q: Who is the author of Twelve Caesars? A: The author is Mary Beard, a renowned historian known for her engaging writing on ancient Rome.
- Q: What is the main theme of Twelve Caesars? A: The main theme revolves around how images of Roman emperors have influenced art and culture over two thousand years. It examines the portrayal of power through history.
- Q: Is Twelve Caesars suitable for all ages? A: Yes, the book is suitable for a general audience, including those interested in history and art. However, its complex themes may be more appreciated by older teens and adults.
- Q: How can I best use this book for learning? A: You can use this book as a resource for understanding the influence of Roman emperors on art and politics. It is ideal for students and enthusiasts of history.
- Q: Is there a specific audience for this book? A: This book appeals to readers interested in art history, Roman history, and cultural studies. It is particularly beneficial for academics and casual readers alike.
- Q: What should I consider when reading Twelve Caesars? A: Consider the historical context and the artistic representations discussed. The book provides insights that require some background knowledge of Roman history.
- Q: How should I care for my copy of Twelve Caesars? A: Keep the book in a cool, dry place to prevent damage. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight to preserve the cover and pages.
- Q: Can I return the book if I don't like it? A: Yes, most retailers have a return policy. Check the specific policy where you purchased the book for details on returns.
- Q: What if my copy of Twelve Caesars arrives damaged? A: If it arrives damaged, contact the retailer immediately to report the issue and arrange for a replacement or refund.
- Q: Are there any illustrations in Twelve Caesars? A: Yes, the book includes numerous illustrations that complement the text and provide visual context to the discussions on art and power.
- Q: Is there a specific edition of Twelve Caesars I should look for? A: Look for the latest edition published by Princeton University Press for the most updated content and illustrations.
- Q: What kind of historical figures are discussed in this book? A: The book discusses Roman emperors, particularly the Twelve Caesars, including figures like Julius Caesar and Domitian, examining their impact on art.