Sicilian Twilight: The Last Leopards

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Summary: The cultivated and decadent lifestyle of Sicilian nobility
Review: Sicilian Twilight: The Last Leopards is a coffee table history book showcasing the cultivated and decadent lifestyle of Sicilian nobility who were absolute lords of their domain down to the waning years of the 18th century. Gerard Gefen's meticulous research and narrative skills provide an informative, insightful, engaging test which is superbly enhanced and documented by the photography of Jean-Bernard Naudin. Among the 275 illustrations (with 182 being in full color), there are period documents and 19th century photographs, as well as new photos of gardens, palaces, jewels, table settings, and other luxury items typical of the daily life of Sicilian nobility. Sicilian Twilight is very highly recommended reading and would make an excellent "Memorial Fund" acquisition for both academic and community library collections.