Morandi’s Books, Mary Ellen Bartley
A poetic tribute to silence, books, and the intimacy of Giorgio Morandi’s studio.
Morandi’s Books (2023) is an artful photo publication by Mary Ellen Bartley, capturing the personal library of Italian painter Giorgio Morandi (1890–1964). Renowned for his serene still lifes, Morandi lived a reclusive life in Bologna, surrounded by books on art, philosophy, and literature. Bartley photographs these volumes not as mere vessels of knowledge but as sculptural forms: weathered spines, subtle shadows, and muted tones that echo Morandi’s own palette.
The result is a meditative series of images evoking the intimacy of Morandi’s world—a dialogue between text and image, matter and idea. This book is both a homage to Morandi and a reflection on the beauty of impermanence.
Historical and Cultural Context
Giorgio Morandi is considered one of the most influential Italian modernists of the 20th century. His work, marked by simplicity and concentration, inspired generations of artists. Bartley’s project resonates with today’s fascination for slow looking and the materiality of books in a digital age. Published by Silvana Editoriale, a leading publisher of art and photography books.
Genre and Themes
- Genre: Photography, Art Book
- Themes: Still life, libraries, materiality, modernist art
- Style: Minimalist, contemplative, visually poetic
Why This Book Stands Out
- Exclusive photographs of Morandi’s personal library
- A unique art book bridging photography and art history
- Perfect for admirers of Morandi, still life, and fine-art photography
About the Author
Mary Ellen Bartley is an American photographer celebrated for her serene compositions of books and paper objects. Her work is exhibited internationally and praised for its subtle balance of form, light, and texture.
This book is in stock at our warehouse in the Netherlands and available for fast delivery (no customs fees for orders within the Netherlands and the EU).
Product Information
Title: Morandi’s Books
Author: Mary Ellen Bartley
Language: English and Italian
Publisher: Silvana Editoriale
ISBN: 9791280750372
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 72
Edition: First edition, 2023
Dimensions: 23.9 x 20.1 x 0.6 cm
Weight: approx. 400 g
Categories: Art, Photography
Condition: Almost like new
Price without shipping costs
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