The Vatican and its Treasures: A pictorial history and Guide

London: Bodley Head , 1983. First English language edition. Very Good. A truly beautiful book which reproduces, mostly in full colour, some of the finest artistic treasures of the Vatican. Beginning in the late Roman period, the book progresses through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and down to the eclecticism of the 19th.Century, paying detailed attention to the outstanding works of each era. The authorative text is combined with more than 400 photographs of the Vatican's finest works of art. Includes an explanation of the stages in the formation and evolution of the Vatican City as the focal centre of the pontiff's dual authority, the construction of St Peter's Basilica and the gradual evolution of papal power. Artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael and Poussin, as well as their significant contributions to the Vatican, are all carefully analysed. The final section provides a guided tour around the Vatican which will prove invaluable to the visitor. Overall, a handsome tribute to a miraculous place. Size, 29 x 25cm, 278 pages, illustrated throughout with colour and b&w plates. Ex-library, front endpaper removed, library stamps on half-title page and reverse of title page. Beige cloth boards, mild stain on front edge, front and back hinges reinforced with invisible tape, in pictorial dust jacket. Jacket shows mild shelf wear only. Internally, good: clean, bright and unmarked in sound bindings. PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A HEAVY ITEM AND WILL REQUIRE ADDITIONAL POSTAGE, EVEN FOR UK CUSTOMERS. PLEASE EMAIL FOR EXACT QUOTE.