The search for physical perfection began with the Greeks, who first competed nude in athletic games in the 8th century BCE and created their gods in the ideal human form. Peak of Perfection celebrates the universal fascination with the nude and the power of beauty. The richly detailed, black and white, fine art photographs portray the apex of youthful vitality and the sublime architecture of the body. Alternately meditative and exhilarating, these dynamic performers express their sensuality and acrobatic skills so dramatically that the images leap off the page and grab you by the heart. Couples express the passion of romantic love and soloists display their virtuosity, the result of countless hours of training. Meticulously selected quotes from poets, artists, and philosophers throughout history complement the intimate portraits. This deluxe collection, which comes in a linen slipcase with embossed metallic ink, features stochastic printing, tri-tone images, and three double gate folds. It is a compelling invitation to contemplate beauty and to share with someone you love. [AuthorName]Jon Ortner[/AuthorName][AuthorBio]Jon Ortner is a combination of artist, naturalist, scholar, and adventurer specializing in photography of culture, icons, and landscapes of Southeast Asia, the Himalaya, the American Southwest, and New York City. He is the author of five internationally published fine art books.[/AuthorBio][NumIllustration]143 b/w photos in tri-tone ink with 3 gate folds[/NumIllustration][CoAuthor][/CoAuthor][SubTitle]Nude Portraits of Dancers, Athletes, and Gymnasts[/SubTitle][ColorPattern]143 b/w photos in tri-tone ink with 3 gate folds[/ColorPattern]