Sarah Bernhardt: The Art of High Drama (Published in Association with the Jewish Museum, New York) (Hardcover)

~ Professor Carol Ockman (Author), The Jewish Museum (Author), Kenneth E. Silver (Author), Professor Janis Bergman-Carton (Contributor), Karen Levitov (Contributor)

Editorial Reviews

Review

"The volume is not only an abundantly illustrated art book, but a highly readable one as well. . . . It's a wealth of material, fascinating in and of itself, all of it splendidly reproduced."-Jewish Exponent (Jewish Exponent )

Product Description

Sarah Bernhardt (1844–1923) was an extraordinary performer, so much so that her name became synonymous with acting. Yet her importance extended beyond the world of theater—she was an icon of French nationalism, a target of both admiration and scorn, an artist and sculptor, and a trendsetting avatar of style. This fascinating book examines the many sides and talents of Bernhardt, from her beginnings at the Comédie Française through her international stardom. Wonderfully illustrated, the book features an unprecedented collection of images relating to Bernhardt’s life, including paintings, posters, photographs, costumes, jewelry, stage designs, self-portraits, and sculptures.

Bernhardt orchestrated a brilliant sixty-year career as an actress and entrepreneur, becoming a revered patriotic figure in her native France and a beloved star in America, where she undertook nine successful tours. Along the way she sat for the most fashionable artists of her time, became the most photographed woman in the world, and attached her name to everything from hair curlers to liqueurs. This book brings the incredible Sarah Bernhardt to life for contemporary readers and highlights her historical significance and integral place in modern culture.

Featured illustrations include:

• Art Nouveau posters by Alphonse Mucha depicting Bernhardt in her most famous roles

• Designer costumes, tunics, tiaras, and jewelry

• A human skull, a gift from Victor Hugo

• Portraits of the actress by Jean Cocteau, Félix Nadar, Andy Warhol, and others

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 232 pages
• Publisher: Yale University Press (December 2, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0300109199
• ISBN-13: 978-0300109191
• Product Dimensions: 10.7 x 9 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: No customer reviews yet. Be the first.
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #720,349 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)