Description
A Hundred Years of a Lady (1897-1997)
Book Summary
This work commemorates the centenary of the discovery of the Lady of Elche, one of the most emblematic Iberian sculptures in peninsular archaeology. Through a rigorous study and the complete catalog of the exhibition held in Elche, the reader gains access to a multidisciplinary analysis that spans from the historical and artistic context of the piece to its cultural impact over a century. A reference volume for understanding the significance and transcendence of this masterpiece of ancient art.
What is it about?
The book addresses the history and meaning of the Lady of Elche from its discovery in 1897 to the commemoration of its first centenary in 1997. The work is structured in two fundamental parts: a section of studies that analyzes the sculpture from archaeological, historical, and artistic perspectives, and an exhaustive catalog of the exhibition that brought together key pieces and documentation to contextualize this icon of Iberian art. It examines aspects such as its discovery, style, possible function, and the debate over its authenticity and interpretation, offering a complete and updated view of the research surrounding this limestone lady.
Main themes
- Iberian sculpture: formal, stylistic, and technical analysis of the Lady of Elche.
- Archaeology by period/region: study of the historical and cultural context of the Iberian Contestania.
- Exhibition catalogs and specific collections: detailed documentation of the commemorative exhibition.
- History of the discovery: chronicle of the 1897 find and its immediate repercussions.
- Historiographic debate: review of theories regarding the authorship, dating, and meaning of the piece.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at archaeologists, art historians, university students of humanities, and museum professionals. It is also of great interest to enthusiasts of archaeology and cultural heritage who wish to deepen their knowledge of one of the most representative works of pre-Roman art in the Iberian Peninsula.
What this book contributes
- Access to an updated multidisciplinary study on the Lady of Elche, with contributions from various specialists.
- Visual and documentary catalog of the commemorative exhibition, including related pieces and archival material.
- Understanding of the archaeological and historical context of Iberian sculpture in the southeastern peninsula.
- Perspective on the evolution of research and the public reception of the Lady over the course of a century.
Technical specifications
- Author: Chapa, T.; Manso, E.; Rodero, A.; Salve, V.
- Publisher: Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport. Area d
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: Sculpture, Exhibition catalogs and specific collections, Archaeology by period/region
- Collection: Pdte. Collection
- Binding: Other
- Publication date: January 1997
- Number of pages: 182
- Weight: 1100 g
Editorial review
This is a commemorative reference publication for the study of the Lady of Elche, which combines academic rigor with an accessible outreach approach. The participation of several specialists guarantees a plural and documented vision, while the exhibition catalog provides added documentary value. It is an essential work for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of this Iberian sculpture and its cultural legacy.