Customer Reviews

Vermeer: The Complete Paintings by the Master of Light (Master Artists Library)

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While only 35 paintings can be ascribed to Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675), he is considered one of the most important painters in history. Vermeer captured the subtle depth of his subjects while in private contemplations, and recorded the delicacy of light and richness of color in a way that has probably never been surprised.

This luscious volume, with over 80 illustrations-including 54 full-color plates-presents Vermeer's complete illustrious works. From his much-loved Girl With A Pearl Earring to his cityscape The View of Delft (which Marcel Proust lauded as `the most beautiful painting the world'), you'll find them all here and be astounded by Vermeer's innovative technique and mastery of perspective and composition. As a supplement to Vermeer's magnificent works, art historian Dr. Erik Larsen provides an authoritative study of the artist's life and art, and the much-discussed debate surrounding the attribution of his paintings.

Vermeer, one of the first four titles in the Master Artists Library series, is the first series to include magnificent color reproductions of every painting by the featured artist. Written by some of the world's most important art historians, each volume includes a detailed analysis of the artist's paintings, along with an extensive biography. The first four books-Vermeer, Bosch, Masaccio, and Dûrer-are must-have additions to the bookshelves of all art love

Perhaps I would not have been so disappointed had the other reviewer not produced such a glowing description of color plates and lucious images, but I just bought it new from amazon, and the book has 8 (count them, 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8) color plates- all of the rest are black and white. It looks like it will be interesting reading, and there are some lovely details in black and white, but this is an art book- on Vermeer, no less! There should be more color, certainly.

Vermeer has always been one of my favorite painters
and this book is the most beautifully written analysis you could find on studies of Vermeer

this is not a book of facts
so if u r trying to find how Vermeer used his paint; what was his specific technique on a painting of his; or what exactly was his story (his family;religion;education etc.) this is not the book for u

but if u r just like me...who love and appreciate the beauty of Vermeer's work and who has no specific purpose on interpreting his intentions...who wholeheartedly love art and could therefore put aside those academic historical datas analysis.....and who is more concerned aesthetically about his work his style...this is the most beautifully written one for u:)
it's like poetry

The author rambles on endlessly in what appears to be an attempt to impress the reader with complicated and cryptic prose. It is the worst art book I've ever purchased. Save your money!