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Goya (World's Greatest Artists (Chelsea House))

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In this unique collection of paintings by Spanish artist, Francisco de Paula Jose de Goya y Lucientes, the reader is presented with an enticing overview of works by this famous artist. Goya was born in a small village, but trained in Italy and Spain, eventually becoming the Court painter.

Goya's portraits are divided into two groups, those embracing a delightful array of color and sweet texture and those of a far darker hue, featuring witchcraft, madness and death. In either style, Goya remained the master. It is impossible to stay emotionally detached from these exquisite paintings so thoughtfully assembled in this wonderful collection.

Goya is one of the great artists of all time whose work anticipated the styles of the 19th and 20th century painters. In this slim volume, the reader is introduced to some of his most outstanding works.

Much of what is presented are the familiar works by which Goya is known beginning with his cartoon The Parasol (1777) and ending with The Milkmaid of Bordeaux (1827). As you review each painting, the intensity and power of Goya's work touches you. The author gives a brief summary of the work and comments on Goya's style, the context in which the picture was painted and the changes in his technique and subject matter throughout his life.

The Life and Works of Goya is an excellent introductory text for those unfamiliar with this great artists. Its focus is on the paintings and it keeps any extraneous information to the minimum. You, as the reader and viewer get the opportunity to enjoy, meditate and form your own opinion about what you see from Goya's work. In reading and viewing this book I found myself wanting to know more about the breadth and depth of Goya's work. It has served as a catalyst for me and no doubt for you to explore the meaning of his art in today's times and its impact on future artists. This book is well worth having in your collection.