Forgery Beyond Deceit: Fabrication, Value, and the Desire for Ancient Rome

The book "Forgery Beyond Deceit: Fabrication, Value, and the Desire for Ancient Rome" explores the cultural, historical, and rhetorical functions of forgery, examining its connection with related phenomena like pseudepigraphy, fakes, and copies, and investigating its aesthetic and historical value. It also examines the desire for the ancient and the recovery of the fragmentary past of ancient Rome.

Format: Hardback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Forgery, a complex and intriguing phenomenon, delves into the depths of deception and the pursuit of authenticity. Beyond Deceit: Fabrication, Value, and the Desire for Ancient Rome, a comprehensive exploration of this topic, takes a focused look at forgery in ancient Rome and its enduring influence. Spanning from antiquity to the twentieth century, the book delves into the realms of literature and art, two dominant areas in the study of forgery. It also examines the forgery of physical books, coins, and religious relics, shedding light on the diverse ways in which forgery has been employed throughout history.

What sets this book apart is its examination of the cultural, historical, and rhetorical functions of forgery that extend far beyond the mere act of deception and financial gain. The author delves into the intricate connections between forgery, pseudepigraphy, fakes, and copies, exploring how they shape our understanding of art, literature, and history. Moreover, the book investigates the aesthetic and historical value that forgeries possess when scholarship takes a serious and nuanced approach to their form, content, and varied uses within and across cultures.

One of the most captivating aspects of forgery is its ability to embody a deep-seated desire for the ancient and the recovery of the fragmentary past of ancient Rome. The book explores how forgeries tap into our fascination with the distant past, offering a glimpse into a time when the rules of the present were yet to be established. By creating replicas of ancient artifacts and texts, forgers attempt to recreate the essence of a bygone era, filling in the gaps in our knowledge and providing a sense of connection to our ancestors.

Furthermore, forgery serves as a means of preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of ancient Rome. By creating replicas of famous works of art and literature, forgers ensure that these valuable pieces of history are not lost to time. They also provide opportunities for scholars and enthusiasts to study and appreciate these works in a more accessible and tangible manner.

However, the pursuit of authenticity and the battle against forgery are ongoing challenges. The book highlights the efforts of experts, collectors, and museums to identify and authenticate genuine artifacts and works of art, while also raising awareness about the dangers of forgery. It emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising to prevent the proliferation of counterfeit goods and protect the integrity of cultural heritage.

In conclusion, Beyond Deceit: Fabrication, Value, and the Desire for Ancient Rome offers a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of forgery. Through its examination of the cultural, historical, and rhetorical functions of forgery, the book sheds light on the complex interplay between authenticity, deception, and the human desire for the past. It provides valuable insights into the diverse ways in which forgery has been employed throughout history and its impact on our understanding of art, literature, and history. By raising awareness about the dangers of forgery and celebrating the authentic, this book contributes to the preservation and appreciation of our cultural heritage.

Weight: 840g
Dimension: 243 x 160 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192869586