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A BUTCHER'S #33

Jul 18, 2025

A BUTCHER’S hook/look (Cockney rhyming slang)

Just a note here - try installing the Substack app (free) on your phone. It’s easier, works well and looks better! Or online here - browse away!

Available for iOS and Android

been busy

I know, I’m running late! It’s been a bit harder being in Italy with patchy internet and the best reasons not to sit at a computer. I’ll get into the rhythm soon, finding ways to combine a mix of Art, New York and Rome/Italy. Lots more to come.

photo of Abruzzo landscape with couple relaxing in sun chairs — siesta time ©SteveButcher2025

Meanwhile in the cooler high regions of Abruzzo, the habit of keeping folding camping/beach chairs in the car is evident. After lunch, a siesta feels right - so why not find a nice spot, pull out your chairs and for a few hours just relax. Most choose a shady place to park themselves - some want to catch some sun. Excellent.

photo of battered signpost in Arcinazzo, Italy — That way, this way ©SteveButcher

uncover up

A photo (35mm slide) I took back in 1984. It’s not that surprising that an artist like Mimmo Rotella was drawn to the fantastic layering of circus posters in Italy to create his décollage work.

photo of torn circus poster showing Roma and American flag under — trans atlantic ©SteveButcher1984

more for your Lira

My favorite tourist postcard. Itself a classic design, with the miniature postcard attractions arranged on a cool evocative airbrushed background. Normally in color, this time an earlier version in black and white - probably from the 40s.

1940s black and white tourist postcard of Rome — see the sights in Rome

One thing that strikes me as odd…. the Colosseum and Forum aren’t in the group. In fact nothing much of Roman Rome. Obviously the focus (and Instagram) has shifted in the last decade. I saw recently that the Colosseum is now the #1 tourist destination in Italy.