Subject
Painters -- United States Books
Best books
H. J. (Harry John) Wilmot-Buxton
English Painters, with a Chapter on American Painters
"English Painters, with a Chapter on American Painters" by H. J. Wilmot-Buxton and S. R. Koehler is an illustrated handbook of art history written in the late 19th century. This work provides a comprehensive exploration of the history and development of painting in England, tracing the influence of foreign artists and detailing the contributions of notable English painters from early periods up until the 18th century, including figures such as Hogarth, Reynolds, and Gainsborough. The opening of this handbook sets the stage for an in-depth examination of early English art, arguing against the misconception that England was devoid of artistic merit before the Renaissance. Wilmot-Buxton notes the contributions of lesser-known figures and sketches a narrative around the significant but often overlooked medieval and early modern English painters. The text highlights the gradual evolution of English painting, emphasizing how various foreign influences shaped local artistry, culminating in a uniquely English style that developed a distinct identity, particularly through the works of pivotal artists in the 18th century.
John C. Van Dyke
American painting and its tradition : $b as represented by Inness, Wyant, Martin, Homer, La Farge, Whistler, Chase, Alexander, Sargent
"American Painting and Its Tradition" by John C. Van Dyke is an art history publication written in the early 20th century. This work explores the developments in American art primarily from around 1878 to 1915, focusing on notable artists such as George Inness, Wyant, Martin, Winslow Homer, and Whistler. The book aims to contextualize these artists within a larger tradition of American painting, analyzing their contributions and the shifts in artistic movements during that era. The opening of the book sets the stage for this exploration by discussing the historical context of American painting, which began as an adaptation of European methods. It outlines the transition from a reliance on portraiture and landscape as seen in the Hudson River School to the emergence of a uniquely American voice in art. The preface emphasizes the importance of the nine chosen artists, noting that while they were part of a broader movement, their individual styles were instrumental in shaping American art. The author provides personal insights derived from his experiences during the time, hinting at the deep cultural and artistic influences that informed the work of these pivotal figures.
Charles H. (Charles Henry) Caffin
American Masters of Painting Being Brief Appreciations of Some American Painters
"American Masters of Painting" by Charles H. Caffin is a collection of brief appreciation essays on notable American painters, written in the early 20th century. The work introduces readers to key figures in American art, like George Inness, John La Farge, and James A. McNeill Whistler, alongside illustrations of their significant works. Caffin's aim is to highlight the contributions and innovations of these artists within the context of American culture. The opening of the book begins by establishing George Inness as a pivotal figure in American art, credited as a pathfinder who shaped the naturalistic movement in landscape painting. Caffin discusses Inness's evolution as an artist, emphasizing his independent studies of nature and his progression influenced by the Barbizon painters. The narrative outlines Inness's techniques, the mood he sought to convey through his landscapes, and his spiritual approach to art, all of which contribute to his unique style and significance in the field. Through this introduction, readers gain insight into both the artistic and personal qualities that define Inness's work and set the stage for further explorations of other artists in the collection.
J. Thompson Willing
The Mentor: Makers of American Art, Vol. 1, Num. 45, Serial No. 45
"The Mentor: Makers of American Art, Vol. 1, Num. 45, Serial No. 45" by J. Thomson Willing is a historical account published in the early 20th century, specifically during the early 1910s. The book explores the development and contributions of several prominent American artists from the colonial period through the early republic, emphasizing their impact on American art and culture. The text is particularly focused on portraiture and the ways these artists captured the essence of American identity during formative years in history. The book provides detailed profiles of key figures such as John Singleton Copley, Benjamin West, Charles Willson Peale, Gilbert Stuart, and others, highlighting their backgrounds, artistic styles, and significant works. It discusses the societal context in which these artists operated, noting how the demand for portraits reflected the growing aspirations of American society in the wake of the Revolutionary War. Each artist's relationship with important historical events and figures, like George Washington, is examined, illustrating how their artworks not only documented a nation's evolution but also contributed to shaping its cultural identity. The interplay between individual artistry and the broader historical narrative is a recurring theme, culminating in a deeper appreciation for the role of visual art in America's story.
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