The Emperors of Byzantium

GILES WHITTELL KEVIN LYGO

Never mind the thousand year Reich, the Byzantine empire actually did last from the 4th to the 15th century, picking up from where the Roman empire left off. From Europe to western Asia, this was a vast empire, ruled by dynasties of emperors, which is how author and collector Kevin Lygo breaks it down. Religion played a large part in most of the emperor’s lives and this comes across with the military and political actitivies that they got up to. Scattered throughout the text are various objects of note, which are explained for their importance in the overall story. In fact, production wise, it’s up there with Folio Society books, with lovely paper and colour photos and illustrations scattered throughout.

It really deserved to have a formal slipcase because it’s that nice. A fascinating read and superb production standards. ■

• Thames & Hudson

• ISBN 978-0-5000-2329-7

• 340 pages • Hardback • £25