ABSTRACT

Pliny sketches a theory of advancing moral decline and extravagance, in the course of which he gives a detailed account of six centuries of classical art and a fascinating sketch of the world of the rich Roman collector. Isager's is the first full treatment of this subject for over a hundred years.

chapter |9 pages

Introduction

chapter |14 pages

Epistula praefatoria

chapter |11 pages

Man and Nature

chapter |5 pages

Pliny as "Scientist"

chapter |4 pages

Mineralogy in Naturalis Historia

chapter |24 pages

Book 33. Gold and Silver in Roman Society

chapter |29 pages

Book 34. Bronze Art

chapter |5 pages

Plan and Intention in Books 34-35

chapter |30 pages

Book 35. The Art of Painting

chapter |68 pages

Book 36. Marble Art and Architecture

chapter |9 pages

Book 37. Gems

chapter |9 pages

Conclusion