FABULOUS consignment of collectible and rare fine books - this week we are featuring fantastic coffee table books to complement any luxury style. The artwork within these books is suitable for framing.
On one side Naples, capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, one of the three or four most important intellectual and artistic centers in Europe. On the other, a young Scottish nobleman, William Hamilton, born in 1730, who devoted the first thirty years of his life to serving the British crown. He arrives on November 17, 1764, in a city of excess. Famines and epidemics, great misery and extreme violence reign there. But from the Sessa Palace, seat of the British Embassy, ??the sight is quite different: the large residence overlooks the river and, to the south, the Sorrentine peninsula. Hamilton discovers the worldly and brilliant life of a great capital.
By chance, peace then reigns in Europe, and reduced diplomatic activity leaves the new ambassador free to pursue his passions for the violin and for hunting. Hamilton quickly becomes a leading figure in Naples. He won the favors of the king, who appreciated his skill in hunting, and took an active part in court life. These worldliness, which might seem futile, has two important complementary aspects. On the one hand, Hamilton, a wise collector of paintings (Flemish works, bought in London through the intermediary of his nephew Charles Greville), influenced the taste and techniques of the Neapolitan artistic milieu - particularly in the landscape.
Provenance: Book Collector
Scuffing and wear around edges and binding may be present. Yellowing of pages or mildew staining may be present. Some vinyls may be affected by mildew. All records in condition as seen in photograph. Please see photos for condition and details.
Shipping is available for books. Keep in mind that many books in this auction are quite large and/or hardcover, which directly affects shipping costs. We ship book rates wherever possible to reduce costs, but the bidder is always responsible for shipping costs and there are no refunds.
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