John Singer Sargent Watercolors
This copy from the library of British architect James Stirling
Author
Publisher
Printing Details
First UK edition. Hardback in dustwrapper. 28.5 × 27cm. 87pp.
This copy belonged to British architect James Stirling, and has his library label to the front pastedown. James Stirling (1926–1992) was known for his unorthodox, sometimes controversial, designs of multiunit housing and public buildings. His earlier work being in the New Brutalist style. Some of his notable works include the Leicester University Engineering Building, the History Faculty Building at the University of Cambridge, the Clore Gallery and the Neue Staatsgalerie in Stuttgart, Germany.
The works reproduced in this book encompass the wide range of John Singer Sargent's interest: the complex forms of Baroque art and architecture in Florence and Rome; the nuances of light on the canals in Venice; the pictorial qualities of the landscapes he encountered during his many travels in Europe; the mystery and drama of the Bedouins (which he studied to lend authenticity to the Boston Library decorations); the somber and desolate nature of war in the pictures painted during World War I. Finally, the brilliance of the color in Sargent's Florida watercolors anticipates Expressionism. These watercolors with their emphasis on the fleeting visual effects of nature, place Sargent as an Anglo-American Impressionist and reveal the debt he owed to his friend Monet.
The text surveys Sargent's entire career as a painter, placing him in his historical context and documenting the major influences on his art, which ranged from Velasquez to Monet to Whistler. The text and captions accompanying each color plate explain the background and development of Sargent's methods in watercolor and will be of particular interest.
Condition
The book is in very good condition with a few light spots of isolated foxing, and some light age-toning to the pages. The wrapper has some light edgewear but is also good.
Price
£35.00
