Images and Translations: The Etruscans Abroad

Professor Larissa Bonfantes' book "Images and Translations: The Etruscans Abroad" explores the Etruscan world, revealing their sophisticated and pleasure-loving culture through works of art and the expertise and production of artists and artisans. It also highlights the connections between Italy, Greece, northern Europe, and the Near East, showcasing the enduring influence of Etruscan culture on Western history and imagery.

Format: Hardback
Length: 492 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

Professor Larissa Bonfantes is a true master of her craft, with an incredible ability to transport us back in time and immerse us in the experiences, beliefs, and thoughts of people who lived over two thousand years ago. Her book, Images and Translations: The Etruscans Abroad, is a remarkable achievement that effortlessly evokes the sensations of other times and places, from the mundane to the solemnly ritualistic.

The Etruscans, a sophisticated and pleasure-loving civilization, left their mark on a vast expanse of the ancient world. Bonfante delved into the expertise and craftsmanship of the artists and artisans who created these magnificent works of art, examining their tastes and the sometimes surprising outcomes of the exchanges between creators and buyers. Just as the French demand for Chinese ceramics in the seventeenth century gave rise to the unprecedented famille colors, the production of Greek ceramics for the Etruscan market resulted in singularly expressive depictions that could be humorous, pious, or erotic, depending on the buyer's preferences.

What sets Images and Translations apart is its exploration of areas in much closer economic and cultural contact than is commonly recognized. By tracing traces and transformations, Bonfante uncovers threads of connection not only between Italy and Greece, but also between Italy and northern Europe, including modern-day France and Germany, as well as between Italy and the Near East. The Etruscan influence permeates Western history, extends into the Renaissance, and continues to resonate in imagery that remains evocative even today.

Through her meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Professor Bonfantes has brought the Etruscans to life in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Her book is a valuable contribution to the field of ancient history, offering a fresh perspective on a civilization that has fascinated scholars for centuries. Whether you are an avid reader of history or simply someone who enjoys exploring the wonders of the past, Images and Translations is a must-read that will transport you to a world long forgotten but never forgotten.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780472131976