Costumes of the Greeks and Romans

by Thomas Hope

For over 200 years considered among the finest, most accurate, most useful renderings of authentic costumes from these early civilizations. Carefully copied from ancient vases & statuary, these engravings combine unusual clarity of style with unquestioned authenticity. Over 700 illustrations depict all classes & occupations.

Genres: Art, History, Fashion, Nonfiction, Fashion History, Roman, Reference

350 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1812

Reviews

[sologdin · Rating 2 out of 5]

The early 19th century ethnography is pretty much as expected, but the drawings are great. I have no way to know if they're accurate, but they purport to be drawings done of actually existing artifacts.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

A 1962 (or later) reprint of a book originally published in 1812 under the name "Costume of the Ancients."

There are about 33 pages of text at the beginning introducing the book & the author's intentions, then naming and describing clothing of various civilizations. The first section, on the ancient Egyptians, is accompanied by a 1962 publisher's note discounting the entire section. The second section, called "The Asiatics," deals with what we today would consider to be the Mediterranian and Middle East and should be taken with a grain of salt (or two or five). Then there are the sections on the Greeks and Romans.

After the short text are 700 detailed illustrations across 300 plates that were taken from ancient statues, reliefs, vases, etc. Most are of clothed figures, but some look at architecture and objects as well.

[Manda TheyShe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This will definitely come in handy for costuming and for on stage.

[Constantine]

2 copies

[sherry revill · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too Much Greek

Too much Greek clothing. Plates on one page, captions on another. No color plates. No discussions about colors except for purple (of course).

[Charles O'Donnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Done

This book has useful plate that have increased my knowledge do a degree. Useful addition to a Greco-Roman costume library
.

[Xander · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did not age well! Some of the early comments weren’t great and his reputation regarding his personality certainly shines through. Having said that there is some interesting and helpful basic facts in there.

[Darklysewn · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent resource

[Kira Gold · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an incredible resource and needs to be in every costume designer's library.