This exhibition catalogue was presented – as has often been the case in recent years – not preceding, but during the exhibition and contains images from the exhibition itself. When the exhibition had to close owing to the coronavirus measures, this book took on the role of replacement.

Even though the book as a whole is designed on the basis of a clear, European principle, it does in our opinion do justice to the diversity of the topic of slavery. For all its simplicity, the images have been well edited and the book makes a layered impression. Only after you have picked your way through it does the relatively simple repetition of visual subjects come into focus. The typography on the other hand does not quite do the job it should in this respect, as the type area is a little too wide.

The cover is rather formal and perhaps a touch too architectural or graphical. In any event, it does not necessarily reflect the feel of the interior. Here the choice was clearly prompted – in a perhaps rather nerdy way – by a concrete, conceptual choice, as the number 152 was the starting point for the artistic research and both the book and the exhibition are based around this number. In all honesty, we found this an attractive aspect.

The really excellent, clear lithography and printing open up the many works in dark colours in great detail and present them in all their glory. Equally exceptional is the fact that, in times of corona, a book can serve with dignity as a teaser, or trailer.