Ruskin's volumes on Venice, written in the 19th century is the landmark work on art and architecture in the city. The problem for the researcher is that it is long out of print and used copies are difficult to find and very pricey. This book, published in 1976 is essentially a scholarly presentation of the Venetian Index,with comments,that is more accessible to the amateur historian. I'm very glad to have it as I prepare for my visit to Venice in September of this year.