Description
In the dramatic years between 1870 and the end of World War II, a number of prominent French Jews—pillars of an embattled community—invested their fortunes in France’s cultural artifacts, sacrificed their sons to the country’s army, and were ultimately rewarded by seeing their collections plundered and their families deported to Nazi concentration camps.
In this rich, evocative account, James McAuley explores the central role that art and material culture played in the assimilation and identity of French Jews in the fin de siècle. Weaving together narratives of various figures, some familiar from the works of Marcel Proust and the diaries of Jules and Edmond Goncourt—the Camondos, the Rothschilds, the Ephrussis, the Cahens d’Anvers—McAuley shows how Jewish art collectors contended with a powerful strain of anti-Semitism: they were often accused of “invading” France’s cultural patrimony. The collections these families left behind—many ultimately donated to the French state—were their response, tragic attempts to celebrate a nation that later betrayed them.
Details
Discover the captivating and poignant history of Jewish art collectors in France with "The House of Fragile Things: Jewish Art Collectors and the Fall of France." Uncover the untold stories of prominent French Jews who invested their fortunes in France's cultural treasures, only to have their collections plundered and their families deported to Nazi concentration camps. This powerful book by James McAuley sheds light on their indomitable spirit and resilience in the face of adversity.
Immerse yourself in the eloquently written and deeply moving account that takes you back to the dramatic years between 1870 and World War II. Witness how these pillars of the embattled Jewish community became integral to France's assimilation and identity through art and material culture. As you follow the narratives of renowned figures such as the Camondos, the Rothschilds, the Ephrussis, and the Cahens d'Anvers, you'll witness their struggle against anti-Semitism and accusations of "invading" France's cultural patrimony.
Delve into this haunting saga that lays bare the depths of French anti-Semitism and offers a timely reminder in the face of its resurgence today. As acclaimed authors Diane Cole and David Bell assert, James McAuley's "The House of Fragile Things" is an essential read that both chills and enlightens. Experience the emotional journey of these collectors and their tragic attempts to celebrate a nation that ultimately betrayed them.
Don't miss out on this evocative exploration of art, history, and the enduring human spirit. Get your hands on "The House of Fragile Things" and be transported to a chapter of French history that demands remembrance. Order now and ignite the passion for knowledge and empathy within you.
Discover More Best Sellers in Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions
Shop Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions
$6.99
Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions - How To Play The Pan Flute: Step by Step Guide For Beginners - Learn How to Play Pan Flute, Set Up the Panpipes, Play Songs and Melodies
Art for Every Home: Associated American Artists, 1934–2000
$17.10
Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions - Art for Every Home: Associated American Artists, 1934–2000
Rick Bartow: Things You Know But Cannot Explain
$4.99
Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions - Rick Bartow: Things You Know But Cannot Explain
Museum: Behind the Scenes at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
$29.10
Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions - Museum: Behind the Scenes at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Warhol: Paintings and Sculpture 1964-1969, Vol. 2 (2 Vol. Set): The Andy Warhol Catalogue Raisonne
$375.00
Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions - Warhol: Paintings and Sculpture 1964-1969, Vol. 2 (2 Vol. Set): The Andy Warhol Catalogue Raisonne
Marie Cuttoli: The Modern Thread from Miró to Man Ray
$30.41
Collections, Catalogs & Exhibitions - Marie Cuttoli: The Modern Thread from Miró to Man Ray
