According to the defined canons of art technique; a portrait should be; above all; a faithful representation of its model. However; this gallery of 1000 portraits illustrates how the genre has been transformed throughout history; and has proven itself to be much more complex than a simple imitation of reality. Beyond exhibiting the skill of the artist; the portrait must surpass the task of imitation; as just and precise as it may be; to translate both the intention of the artist as well as that of its patron; without betraying eitherEcirc;s wishes. Therefore; these silent witnesses; carefully selected in these pages; reveal more than faces of historic figures or anonymous subjects: they reveal a psychology more than an identity; illustrate an allegory; serve as political and religious propaganda; and embody the customs of their epochs. With its impressive number of masterpieces; biographies; and commentaries on works; this book presents and analyses different portraits; consequently exposing to the reader; and to any art lover; a reflection of the evolution of society; and above all the upheavals of a genre that; over 300 centuries of painting; has shaped the history of art.
#3753073 in eBooks 2014-11-24 2014-11-24File Name: B00T8VNYNM
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. "Hello this is Austin!"By HappyslapperAs the words to the song say; this is the consummate Austin history book. Whether you are a new Austinite like myself; or an oldtimer; this book is sure to please as do all the books in the Images of America series.With its proliferation of great photos old and new; you will surely find something of interest. There are pictures of schools and hotels of the past with descriptions below; stores from their original inception to their closings (or burnings down!); and pictures (look at those long skirts) and horse and buggies that will amaze you. This is primarily a pictorial history of Austin; it is anything but dry. Rather; it gives insight into the people; places and things that formed Austin to be the exciting Capital city that it is. One thing I did notice was that women played an early important role in this State!Highly recommended!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Austin ImagesBy Robert AndersonA very good book.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Excellent bookBy kathryn rhodesMy son asked for this book for Christmas. We all looked at it and really enjoyed it . Others wanted a copy too !
