Christopher Lloyd (3) (1945–)

Lovely large format reproductions presented in chronological order, allowing one to trace the development of style and subject matter. For instance, I noticed an abrupt shift (for the better) when Pissarro started working literally side by side. According to the text the influence travelled in both directions. It would be interesting to see if that is equally obvious to me in Cezanne's works.

As well as commentary on each featured painting, there is a time-line biography and an introductory essay.… (plus d'informations)

This might just be the go to Picasso book in this price category. Good overviews of Picasso are hard to find, as his output is so huge, so curating a comprehensive overview isn't easy. By focusing on drawing, Lloyd manages to not get lost.

Still, this book is not only about drawing: to explain Picasso's drawings, Lloyd includes references to - and pictures of - paintings and a bit of sculpture too, both of Picasso and of art that has influenced him. Lloyd writes with great authority, with a detailed knowledge of Picasso's life and work. It is structured chronologically, and investigates how events (and people, most notably Picasso's lovers) influenced his artistic practice. Loyd shows the genius of Picasso, but also his embeddedness, so to say.

This book also doubles as a biography. It is well researched - a few times even a bit too detailed for my taste. One might even say the title is misleading: this is much more than just a book on Picasso's drawings.

I have to say my respect & admiration for Picasso has only increased by reading this. Splendid illustrations, throughout, and excellent print quality.

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