Love; A Curious History

More about the book

From the author of critically acclaimed works comes a magnificent illustrated collection that traces the story of love through the ages. This unique gathering features a wealth of curious objects and surprising tales, including prehistoric carvings, ancient Egyptian statues, medieval spell books, and Victorian code-writing. Explore the royal marriage that defied death in 14th-century Portugal, judicial duels between husbands and wives in Early Modern Europe, and love spells found in medieval manuscripts. Encounter the ancient Greek army regiment of male couples, the French pirate queen avenging her husband, the first woman to sail around the world, and the quack sexologist who deceived 18th-century London with his musical mechanical bed. Discover ancient gods, mythical monsters, Elizabethan portraits of men on fire, and erotic paintings hidden beneath the ash of Pompeii. Delve into Nigerian wedding chains, Welsh love spoons, cryptic postcards, and the centuries-old tradition of mapping the heart. This curiosity cabinet of romantic treasures draws on diverse sources, making it a perfect collection for fans of beautifully illustrated works and curious history, as well as an ideal romantic gift.