Edmund de Waal is a renowned author known for his writings on the themes of art, history, and the connection between objects and memory. He has written several books exploring these themes, including the critically acclaimed “The Hare with Amber Eyes” and “The White Road.”
Edmund de Waal Books in Order
- The Hare With Amber Eyes: A Family’s Century of Art and Loss
- Letters to Camondo
- The White Road: Journey Into an Obsession
- The Pot Book
- 20th Century Ceramics
- Edmund de Waal Library of Exile
- Edmund de Waal
- Bernard Leach
- Timeless Beauty: Traditional Japanese Folk Art
- New Ceramic Design
Synopsis of Edmund de Waal Books in Order
The Hare With Amber Eyes: A Family’s Century of Art and Loss
“The Hare With Amber Eyes: A Family’s Century of Art and Loss” by Edmund de Waal is a non-fiction book that chronicles the history of the Ephrussi family, a wealthy Jewish banking dynasty based in Paris and Vienna. The narrative begins in the 1870s and spans over a century, leading the reader through the family’s rise to prominence, their experiences during the Holocaust, and their eventual dispersal across the globe. At the center of the story are 264 Japanese netsuke (small carved ornaments) that were passed down through generations of the family and eventually came into the possession of the author. The book explores the significance of these objects and their role in connecting the past and present.
De Waal delves into the lives of his ancestors, exploring their individual stories and the impact of historical events on their lives. He uncovers the family’s complex relationships, their struggles with anti-Semitism, and their efforts to reclaim their lost heritage. Through meticulous research and personal reflections, the author paints a vivid portrait of the Ephrussi family and their enduring legacy.
As the author traces the journey of the netsuke, he weaves together themes of art, identity, and memory, offering a moving meditation on the power of objects to preserve history and connect generations. “The Hare With Amber Eyes” is a compelling and poignant exploration of personal and cultural heritage, shedding light on the ways in which the past continues to reverberate in the present.
Letters to Camondo
“Letters to Camondo” by Edmund de Waal is a non-fiction book that revolves around the story of the Camondo family, a wealthy Jewish dynasty who made their fortune in the 19th-century Paris. The book is a collection of letters written by the author to the family, particularly to Count Moïse de Camondo, as he explores their history and the tragic events that unfolded during and after World War II. Through these letters, de Waal delves into the lives, collections, and legacy of the family, as well as his personal connection to their history.
De Waal’s exploration of the Camondo family history provides a poignant and insightful reflection on themes of loss, memory, and the impact of historical events on individual lives. The author’s personal approach to telling the story through letters to Count Moïse de Camondo adds a sense of intimacy and emotion to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the characters and events in a deep and meaningful way. Through his vivid storytelling and evocative writing, de Waal brings the Camondo family and their legacy to life, shedding light on their experiences and the lasting impact of their tragic fate.
Overall, “Letters to Camondo” is a moving and illuminating exploration of the Camondo family’s history, as well as a thoughtful meditation on the broader themes of memory, heritage, and the enduring legacy of the past. Edmund de Waal’s unique approach to storytelling and his personal connection to the subject matter make this book a captivating and powerful read that offers a fresh perspective on a significant period in history.
The White Road: Journey Into an Obsession
“The White Road: Journey Into an Obsession” by Edmund de Waal is a memoir that explores the author’s lifelong obsession with porcelain. De Waal delves into the history and significance of porcelain, tracing its origins in China to its spread across Europe and the rest of the world. Through his personal experiences and encounters with porcelain makers and collectors, De Waal provides a captivating narrative that intertwines art, history, and personal reflection.
The book also serves as a meditation on the nature of obsession and the role of objects in our lives. De Waal’s prose is introspective and thoughtful, as he contemplates the ways in which porcelain has shaped his identity and worldview. Drawing on his experiences as a renowned ceramic artist, De Waal conveys a deep understanding of the craft and its cultural importance.
“The White Road” is a compelling exploration of art, history, and personal passion. De Waal’s intimate and evocative writing invites readers to consider the profound impact that objects can have on our lives, and the ways in which our obsessions shape our identities. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, and the complexities of human experience.
The Pot Book
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20th Century Ceramics
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Edmund de Waal Library of Exile
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Edmund de Waal
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Bernard Leach
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Timeless Beauty: Traditional Japanese Folk Art
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New Ceramic Design
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Biography Edmund de Waal
Edmund de Waal is a skilled potter and accomplished writer, known for his exquisite porcelain creations that are showcased in museums worldwide. His talent and expertise in pottery were honed through an apprenticeship and studies in Japan, complemented by a degree in English Literature from Cambridge University. In addition to his renowned pottery work, Edmund has also made a significant impact in the literary world with his deeply personal book, ‘The Hare with Amber Eyes’, which takes readers on a captivating journey through his family’s history through the lens of objects. Recently, he has also created a stunning installation for the dome of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Edmund de Waal’s books offer a captivating exploration of the themes of identity, memory, and the role of objects in personal and collective history. Through his meticulous and evocative storytelling, he encourages readers to reflect on the ways in which material possessions and the spaces we inhabit shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. With a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of how past experiences continue to inform our present, de Waal’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the value of preserving and sharing our stories for future generations. His narrative style and deep insights into the complexities of human experience make his books a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the intricate interplay between history, memory, and our sense of self.
FAQs about author Edmund de Waal
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