D'Hancarville. The Complete Collection of Antiquities from the Cabinet of Sir William Hamilton

Sir William Hamilton (1731–1803) was a leading European figure of his time, known for his work as a scientist, classicist, and antiquarian. He commissioned Pierre-François Hugues dHancarville to document his collection of ancient Greek vases, which resulted in the neoclassical masterpiece "Les Antiquités dHancarville". TASCHEN has reprinted this catalog for a contemporary audience, reproducing the same pristine images that sparked Europe's love affair with the classical style.

Format: Hardback
Length: 514 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2022
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

Sir William Hamilton, a renowned European figure of his time, was a multifaceted individual. While his marriage to Lady Emma Hamilton gained significant attention due to their romantic relationship with Horatio Nelson, it is important to recognize his significant contributions as a scientist, classicist, and envoy to the British Embassy in Naples.

Hamilton's scientific endeavors were instrumental in the study of ancient sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Mt. Vesuvius. His extensive knowledge and research in these areas greatly enriched our understanding of Roman history and culture. In addition to his scientific pursuits, Hamilton was also an avid collector of ancient Greek vases. His collection, acquired over the years, became one of the most valuable and comprehensive of its time.

Recognizing the importance of preserving and documenting his collection, Hamilton commissioned Pierre-François Hugues dHancarville, an adventurous connoisseur and art dealer, to create a comprehensive catalog of his vases. The resulting work, known as "Les Antiquités dHancarville," was published in four volumes and showcased the vases with remarkable detail and aesthetic beauty.

This reprint by TASCHEN brings dHancarville's masterful catalog back to life for a contemporary audience. With meticulous attention to detail, the book reproduces the same pristine images that once captivated Europe and sparked a love affair with the classical style. The pages are filled with vibrant illustrations that bring the ancient vases to life, allowing readers to appreciate their intricate designs, delicate craftsmanship, and profound cultural significance.

Sir William Hamilton's legacy as a scientist, classicist, and art collector continues to inspire and intrigue us today. His contributions to the study of ancient history and culture have left a lasting impact, and this reprint of "Les Antiquités dHancarville" serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements. By preserving and presenting these images to a new generation, TASCHEN ensures that Hamilton's legacy will continue to be celebrated and appreciated for years to come.

Weight: 3286g
Dimension: 340 x 250 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836587631
Edition number: Multilingual ed