Tim Bonyhady traces the lives of three generations of his family, beginning with the history of Jews in Vienna at a time when many thousands fled to escape the pogrom ordered by Joseph Goebbels.
Among these were the wealthy and privileged Gallia family, who fled to Australia along with their extensive and valuable art collection, among which were prized family portraits by Klimt. Bonyhady chronicles their lives prior to and following their resettlement as the family adjusts to their new status as refugees, a far cry from the cultural and artistic finesse of their previously opulent lifestyle. His meticulously researched book incorporates family diaries and letters along with political, economic and art history adding a deftly handled personal touch to this compelling book.
Comments