Archaeology of the Cinema - C.W. Ceram - 1965

Embark on a fascinating journey through the prehistory of film with C.W. Ceram's "Archaeology of the Cinema." In this groundbreaking work, the renowned author of "Gods, Graves, and Scholars" applies his archaeological approach to unearth the origins and evolution of cinema. Ceram meticulously excavates the technological and cultural layers that led to the birth of motion pictures. From ancient shadow plays to the magic lantern, from early experiments in photography to the first flickering images on screen, he reconstructs the step-by-step development of this revolutionary medium. With the same narrative flair that made his explorations of ancient civilizations so captivating, Ceram brings to life the pioneers of cinema – inventors, artists, and visionaries whose ingenuity and perseverance paved the way for the art form we know today. "Archaeology of the Cinema" is not just a history book; it's a time machine that transports readers to the workshops, fairgrounds, and early theaters where cinema took its first steps. Ceram's engaging prose and keen insights make complex technological developments accessible and exciting for both film enthusiasts and general readers alike. Archaeology ofthe Cinema - C.W. Ceram Published 1965, Thames and Hudson, London Hardcover. Approx. 7x9in. 264pp. Dustjacket shows nicks and wear along edges. Book itself is in good shape. Pages aged (though it's unclear to me if this was an original intended effect or just subsequent aging).