GARDENS AND GHETTOS: THE ART OF JEWISH LIFE IN ITALY

Berkeley : University Of California Press, 1989. Paperback. Original illustrated blue paper wrappers with intricate silver art piece. 4to. XX, 354 pages; 27 cm. First edition. Catalog of an exhibition organized by the Jewish Museum, New York. "Gardens and Ghettos: The Art of Jewish Life in Italy is the title of an exhibition curated by Vivian B. Mann and Emily Braun for The Jewish Museum, New York (September 1989-January 1990) , an exhibition that explores the extraordinarily rich artistic legacy of Italian Jewry. This book, like the exhibition itself, focuses on four time periods: the Empire, the Era of the City States (1300-1550) , the Era of the Ghettos (1550-1750) , and the period since the Risorgimento. Artifacts and architecture are generously represented along with fine arts. Essays by prominent scholars introduce us to the historical and cultural context of a splendid array of works, from ancient Roman architectural fragments and gold glass to illuminated manuscripts and printed books from the Renaissance, baroque ceremonial textiles and silver, and paintings, graphics, and sculpture of the modern era. The many illustrations illuminate the art and life of a minority community in dynamic tension with dominant society and show the vibrant, ongoing contribution by Jews to the arts of Italy. Subjects: Jews - Italy - Exhibitions. Italy - Ethnic relations - Exhibitions. Light wear and rubbing to wraps, otherwise fresh. Very good + condition. (ART-23-6) xx.