Join us for the launch of Florence: Ordeal by Water by Kathrine Kressmann Taylor, with authors Vanessa Nicolson and Sarah Winman. This new edition, to be published by Manderley Press in November 2024, revives Taylor's rediscovered diaries chronicling the devastating floods of the River Arno in 1966, with a new introduction by Vanessa Nicolson.
Kathrine Kressmann Taylor (1903 - 1996) was an American art historian and author based in Florence. Her poignant diaries, first published over 50 years ago, offer a rare insight into a critical moment in the city's history and served as the inspiration for Sarah Winman's bestselling novel Still Life, which interweaves stories from Florence and London.
Florence: Ordeal by Water chronicles the tireless efforts of elderly scholars and the international Angeli del Fango ('Angels of the Mud') who banded together to save Florence's priceless treasures from the devastating floods.
In her insightful introduction, Nicolson, who has roots in both Florence and the UK, enriches the narrative with her personal reflections. The cover is designed by Agnesbic, an Italian-British illustrator whose work is deeply influenced by mid-century design, travel and the warm hues of Tuscany, where she grew up.
This event promises a rich exploration of the stories behind the diaries, the cultural context of the floods and the artworks at risk, offering a deeper understanding of this remarkable chapter in Florence's history.
Standard | £15 |
Estorick Collection Member | £12 |
Students | £12 |
Pay It Forward | £20 |
Open Door | £5 |
Pay It Forward Ticket: Pay a little extra and help us make our events more inclusive. The aim of this scheme is to provide tickets at a lower price for people for whom price may be a barrier to participation.
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Advance booking is required.
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T&Cs
The event is on the ground floor of the building and it is fully accessible.
To find out more about our accessibility statement please visit our Visitor information page and our Museum accessibility guide.
Conditions of sale
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