History's Greatest Artists
The Life and Legacy of Rembrandt
By: Charles River Editors
About This Book
*Includes pictures of dozens of Rembrandt's most famous works *Includes online resources and a bibliography for further reading *Includes a table of contents "A painting is finished when the artist says it is finished." - Rembrandt "Rembrandt painted 700 pictures. Of these, 3,000 are still in existence." - Wilhelm von Bode Of all the famous Dutch masters during the Late Renaissance and Early Baroque periods, none surpass Rembrandt van Rijn in either historical importance or artistic merit. His aesthetic has been much-imitated, a testament to the inspirational grip they exert on their viewer. Key aspects of his style are instantly recognizable to even the casual fine art enthusiast: his penchant for chiaroscuro lighting amidst dark backgrounds; the feverish intensity of his subjects, who are often shown seemingly in action rather than composed; and the recurring use of Biblical and historical subject matter, not to mention an even more prolific output of portraits commissioned (including works commissioned by the Court of the Hague). The more educated viewer might also be aware of Rembrandt's remarkably thick handling of paint, which often seems to protrude from the canvas rather than invite a recession into space (in the Renaissance tradition.) However one recognizes a Rembrandt, however, the strength of his talents is such that encounters with his work leave an indelible imprint. That said, Rembrandt's fame derives not only from the hundreds of paintings he completed (his output is believed to total as many as several hundred works); Rembrandt is also remembered for his profligate spending habits, which famously resulted in him filing for bankruptcy in 1656. If "baroque" connotes excess, it is most appropriate that Rembrandt stands as the most famous painter of the Baroque age, as he lived well beyond his means. His life and career stand in almost complete disharmony, with a vast discrepancy existing between the care and deliberateness with which he conducted his painting, juxtaposed against the careless financial decisions he made -decisions that left him altogether impoverished at the time of his death in 1669. Financial ruin was not the only pitfall to hinder Rembrandt, as he also suffered from childhood deaths to three of his children, as well as the premature death of his wife, Saskia, in 1642. In this respect, Rembrandt lays claim to being one of the great success stories of Dutch art, yet also a man who was often beset with tragedy, of his own making and otherwise. History's Greatest Artists: The Life and Legacy of Rembrandt looks at the personal background that led to him becoming an artist and the cultural climate in which he rose to fame. Rembrandt's formal technique and artistic legacy are also analyzed, including his working methods and artistic education. Along with pictures of important people, places, and events, you will learn about Rembrandt like never before, in no time at all.
AI Overview
"History's Greatest Artists" by Charles River Editors is a series of books that delve into the lives and legacies of some of the most renowned artists in history. The series includes titles on various artists, such as Vincent van Gogh and Jackson Pollock. Here is a comprehensive overview of the series, focusing on the specific titles mentioned:
Vincent van Gogh
Key Themes:
- Biographical Overview: The book provides a detailed examination of van Gogh's life before his career, including his upbringing and the events of his youth that influenced his art.
- Artistic Style and Themes: It offers a close analysis of van Gogh's painting style and artistic themes, highlighting his unique techniques and influences.
- Legacy and Impact: The book discusses the lasting impact of van Gogh's art on the world of painting and his place in history as one of the greatest painters.
- Mental Illness and Death: It delves into the mysteries and controversies surrounding van Gogh's mental illnesses and his tragic death, providing insights from his letters and historical context.
Plot Summary: The book is structured to include:
- Pictures of Famous Works: Detailed descriptions and images of 20 of van Gogh's most famous works, explaining his techniques and influences.
- Excerpts from Letters: Quotes and excerpts from van Gogh's letters to his brother Theo, offering a personal perspective on his artistic journey.
- Bibliography and Resources: A comprehensive bibliography and online resources for further reading, making it a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and scholars.
Critical Reception: While specific reviews are not provided in the sources, the book's structure and content suggest it would be well-received by those interested in art history. The inclusion of pictures, quotes, and detailed analysis makes it a thorough and engaging read.
Jackson Pollock
Key Themes:
- Biographical Overview: The book provides an in-depth look at Pollock's life, including his own quotes about his life and art.
- Artistic Style and Themes: It examines Pollock's unique painting style and the themes that influenced his work.
- Legacy and Impact: The book discusses Pollock's place in the history of modern art and his lasting impact on contemporary art movements.
- Online Resources and Bibliography: The book includes online resources and a bibliography for further reading, making it a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and scholars.
Plot Summary: The book is structured to include:
- Pictures and Quotes: Detailed descriptions and images of Pollock's work, along with his own quotes about his life and art.
- Online Resources: Includes online resources for further reading, providing additional context and insights into Pollock's life and art.
- Bibliography: A comprehensive bibliography for those interested in delving deeper into Pollock's legacy.
Critical Reception: Similar to the van Gogh edition, specific reviews are not provided in the sources. However, the inclusion of Pollock's own quotes and detailed analysis suggests it would be well-received by those interested in modern art history.
General Overview
The "History's Greatest Artists" series by Charles River Editors is designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging look at the lives and legacies of some of the most influential artists in history. Each book includes:
- Pictures and Quotes: Detailed descriptions and images of the artist's most famous works, along with quotes from the artists themselves.
- Biographical Overview: A detailed examination of the artist's life, including their upbringing and the events that influenced their art.
- Artistic Style and Themes: A close analysis of the artist's unique techniques and themes.
- Legacy and Impact: Discussions on the lasting impact of the artist's work on the world of art.
- Mental Illness and Death (where applicable): Insights into any controversies or mysteries surrounding the artist's mental health and death.
- Online Resources and Bibliography: Comprehensive bibliographies and online resources for further reading.
Overall, these books are designed to be both informative and engaging, making them valuable resources for art enthusiasts and scholars alike.