New Orleans: Elegance and Decadence

New Orleans: Elegance and Decadence explores the interiors, furnishings, art collections, and gardens of creative individuals in New Orleans in the 1990s, showcasing the city's unique blend of climate, culture, and Mardi Gras revelry.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2023
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd

New Orleans: Elegance and Decadence delves into the captivating world of the interiors, furnishings, art collections, and gardens of a select group of creative individuals in the vibrant city of New Orleans during the 1990s. These dreamers and urban pioneers, hailing from diverse backgrounds, included bohemian artists, artisans, architects, preservationists, activists, antiquarians, restaurateurs, and teachers, all residing outside the mainstream American culture. In exchange for the weathered plaster, exposed lathe, and sagging galleries, they embraced a communal spirit and a zest for life that permeated every aspect of their existence. Photographer Richard Sexton meticulously captured the essence of their lives, revealing the intricate details of their dwellings, treasured possessions, and profound beliefs. In this revised edition, historian Randolph Delehanty skillfully weaves together the rich history of New Orleans, drawing inspiration from the fragments depicted in Sexton's photographs. Through captivating words and stunning images, the authors explore how the unique blend of climate, a deeply European and Catholic culture, African influences, and the exuberant celebration of Mardi Gras has shaped a modern atmosphere unlike any other in America. While much has transformed over the past three decades, the essence of this distinctive culture remains steadfast, serving as an inspiration to all who seek to embrace the art of living. This book celebrates the joyous spirit that permeates New Orleans, a testament to the enduring legacy of this vibrant city.

Weight: 45g
Dimension: 254 x 254 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780764365980
Edition number: 2nd