Reading list for Roman art and architecture

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Art

Roman Art 

(Donald Strong et al / Paperback / Published 1992 / ISBN 0300052936 ). Absolutely packed full of detailed and informative discussion about all aspects of Roman art, from the Early Iron Age to the Late Empire, and from cameos to pedimental sculpture. Like its companion volume, Roman Imperial Architecture (J.B. Ward-Perkins), this is an indispensable introduction to the wide variety of art-forms known to the Romans, describing the development of Roman art and the influences upon it, the technical methods used by artists and craftsmen, and the contexts within which the art was seen. (QCLA)

Architecture

The Ancient Roman City 

(John E. Stambaugh / Paperback / Published 1988 / ISBN 0801836921 ). This is an accessible, yet informative, work on the development of Roman cities, and the forces which shaped and influenced them. It concentrates on ancient Rome itself, first describing the development of the city over time, and then moving on to discuss life within the city. The book covers the way in which the city was administered, its commercial activity, its public life and the daily lives of its inhabitants. The final section tackles the urbanisation of the rest of the empire and the mechanisms by which this was carried out, and introduces some of its best-known towns. (QCLA)

Roman Imperial Architecture 

(J.B. Ward-Perkins / Paperback / Published 1992 / ISBN 0300052928 ). The standard starting point for anyone interested in Roman architecture, yet also a book all scholars of the subject keep handy too. This book charts the development of Roman architecture through the imperial period, featuring an enormous range of buildings from across the empire along the way, and discussing them with enthralling depth and sensitivity, brought to life by the 316 illustrations. The copious notes and references point the way for further reading on topics or buildings of interest, while the glossary at the back clarifies technical terms for non-experts. (QCLA)

Rome - Biography of a City 

(Christopher Hibbert / Paperback / Published 1988 / ISBN 0140070788 ). A vivid and detailed account of the history of the Eternal City, from her foundation to the present day. This volume serves as an excellent introduction to Rome, and is well-researched, well-documented (including plenty of illustrations!), as well as extremely readable. Perhaps the most indispensable part of this book is the topographical section at the back, which serves as a useful and informative guide to the monuments of modern-day Rome and their histories. Also available in audiobook format (ISBN 0807230405 ). (QCLA)

Rome : An Oxford Archaeological Guide 

(Oxford Archaeological Guides) (A. Claridge / Paperback / 1998 / ISBN 0192880039) A must-have guide to archeological Rome. Divides the city into zones and describes each major (and many minor features) in great detail. Makes extensive use of line drawings and maps. M. Lucretius Agricola

The Mute Stones Speak: The Story of Archaeology in Italy 

(P. MacKendrick / Paperback / 1984 / ISBN 0393301192) Somewhat dated but still interesting history of Italian archaeology. Covers all major periods up to the end of the Empire. Puts major sites in their historical context. M. Lucretius Agricola