Inside Pompeii

Luigi Spina A visually stunning, intimate photographic tour of Pompeii’s spaces, including many that have never been seen by the public.  Pompeii, one of the most astonishing and well-preserved sites of classical antiquity, is also one of the world’s most visited architectural locations. Produced in partnership with the Archeological Park of Pompeii, this lavish volume takes readers on a tour of Pompeii through an array of visually compelling and original photographs by Italian artist Luigi Spina. Pompeii’s architecture is a central feature of Spina's pictures, which were shot at all times of day, in all seasons, and in natural light. Lacy peristyles and rows of ruined columns give way to intimate, atmospheric interior spaces. Mosaic floors and beautiful wall paintings are reproduced with stunning fidelity and sensitivity. The volume also includes an essay by Gabriel Zuchtriegel, director of the Archeological Park of Pompeii, and several meditations on the history, architecture, and natural beauty of the city. Inside Pompeii provides the wondrous experience of wandering through this remarkable site without ever leaving home.  Luigi Spina is an Italian photographer. He has published more than twenty books and has created photographic campaigns for institutions and museums throughout Europe. “A series of still lives taken by the celebrated photographer of antiquities Luigi Spina takes as its focus the interiors of the houses belonging to the upper classes. Here there are no carbonised bodies, crouched and curled in fear and pain. Instead there are empty rooms, gorgeously decorated, with polychrome marble details, geometric black and white floor mosaics, elaborate mythical wall paintings, as well as wall paintings of gardens lush with birds and fruits, botanical motifs, garlands.” —Gavanndra Hodge, The Times “Spina’s magnificent color photographs of Pompeiian details and wider views, often unexpected, invite careful examination.” —C. C. Mattusch, Choice “A recently released book, sure to spark wanderlust, is now providing a behind-the-scenes look at the once vibrant metropolis.” —Adam Schrader, artnet “Visual feast.” —Financial Times “The next best thing to being on-site in Pompeii in person . . . an armchair traveler’s dream.” —Midwest Book Review 480 pages 9 1/2 x 12 1/2 inches 274 color illustrations ISBN 978-1-60606-890-8 hardcover Getty Publications Imprint: J. Paul Getty Museum 2023