This sensitive author reveals the history of Moise de Camondo, a wealthy Jewish art collector, and his descendants with links to de Waal's own Ephrussi family. He does this through imaginary personal letters to the dead Camondo who was originally from Constantinople. He became part of Parisian high society, embracing its culture and freedom only to have his descendants murdered in concentration camps in WWII. The letters are reflections on family, history, collections and the desire to belong.
(Christine Miller - bwl 101 Summer 2021 ) |
