L'Italia fascista in cammino (Fascist Italy on the move) [WITH 516 PHOTOGRAVURES]

Roma: Istituto Nazionale L. U. C. E., 1932. First edition. Softcover. g to vg. Quarto (9 2/3 x 6 3/4"). xvi, 239, [1]pp. Original photo-illustrated wrappers, with blue lettering to front cover, protected by modern mylar..

In 1932, the LUCE institute, an official state propaganda organization which mainly produced films and newsreels, published this celebratory photobook showcasing the achievements of the Fascist state over the decade that Benito Mussolini had been in power.

Illustrated with no less than 516 in-text and full-page photogravures, this work contains a foreword written by Mussolini himself (facsimile handwriting with (truncated) a translation in French, English, German and Spanish on the following pages). Fully illustrated with creative, futurist influenced layouts, including the use of photomontage, documentingfascit architecture, military exploits.

The book starts by showing images of the ‘Duce’ and his rise to power power, followed by pictures of bountiful harvests and high-tech industry proving how much progress had been made thanks to Mussolini’s guidance as well as a none too subtle nod to the glories of ancient Rome. Then we have scenes of a harmonious society, happily enjoying the benefits of the improvements in education, health and public building works brought about by the regime as well as a strong military to protect this "paradise" that has been created. It also features the photographs throughout as we see the draining of the Pontine Marshes, with before and after shots of desolate landscapes and ramshackle homes replaced by wheat fields and new houses for workers.

Moderate and sporadic creasing and minor chipping along edges of wrappers. Head of spine taped. Text and captions in Italian, French, English, German and Spanish. Wrappers in overall good- to good, interior in very good condition. (Inventory #: 46549)