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ITALY IN THE FIFTIES

Matthew Nathan (London)
These two films are typical of the splendid coverage that this maker achieved in his post-war period of film-making. They are a valuable addition to the IAC Film & Video Library archives.

1. SPRING COMES TO FLORENCE
It is Easter Sunday 1958 and at the climax of Mass in Florence Cathedral a rocket-propelled 'dove' flies along a wire from the altar to ignite a cartload of fireworks in the square outside. The film also shows Giotto's Campanile, with its wonderful view of the city; the Bargello Museum and the Uffizi Gallery; scenes by the Arno and on the terrace of the Boboli Gardens (where the Feast of the Crickets is held); and the May Music Festival.
Transfer from 16mm film.

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18.mins


2. TUSCAN TAPESTRY
Filmed in 1958, this shows some of the picturesque mediaeval and Renaissance festivals still celebrated in Tuscany. These include the Giuoco del Calcio in Florence, a famous series of three traditional football games in 16th-century costume; the Palio delle Contrade at Siena (probably the only horse-race which can be won by a mount that has lost its rider); the Boat Race at Pisa, between teams representing Italy's ancient maritime republics; and the Giostra del Saracino at Arezzo, a joust in mediaeval dress.
Transfer from 16mm film.

Archive
/Travel
18.mins


Total running time 36 mins.

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