Michael Taussig is Professor of Anthropology at Columbia University. He is the author, most recently, of The Magic of the State.

"This volume [which asks what happens when something precious is despoiled] is vintage Taussig. . . . It has the hallmarks of his other works—originality, unusual associations among diverse sources, provocative and definitely contestable interpretations of classic theoretical texts, and a generally intimate, fascinated style of communicating with his readers."—George Marcus, Rice University

• Prologue 1. Sacrilege 2. Secrecy magnifies reality 3. In that other time: Isla Grande 4. The face is the evidence that makes evidence possible 5. The secret of the gift Notes Bibliography Index.

Michael Taussig is Professor of Anthropology at Columbia University. He is the author, most recently, of The Magic of the State.

"This volume [which asks what happens when something precious is despoiled] is vintage Taussig. . . . It has the hallmarks of his other works—originality, unusual associations among diverse sources, provocative and definitely contestable interpretations of classic theoretical texts, and a generally intimate, fascinated style of communicating with his readers."—George Marcus, Rice University

• Prologue 1. Sacrilege 2. Secrecy magnifies reality 3. In that other time: Isla Grande 4. The face is the evidence that makes evidence possible 5. The secret of the gift Notes Bibliography Index.