The full range of the art of John Constable (1776- 1837), who is best known for his exquisite sun-dappled landscapes of the English countryside, is revealed in this magnificent Masters of Art volume. The 48 colorplates and numerous black-and-white illustrations display the extraordinary beauty and dazzling technique of Constable's work that made him, along with Gainsborough and Turner, one of Britain's greatest painters. In addition to well-known works such as Dedham Vale, The Hay-Wain, and The Leaping Horse, the colorplates include the full-sized oil sketches that are unique to Constable and which provide a rare glimpse into the artist's thinking as he altered details for a finished work in a constant search for perfection. With his portrayal of the intangibles of light, sky, and atmosphere-billowing clouds, sunshine and shadow racing across meadows, water glinting with reflected light -- Constable's celebration of Nature represents a revolutionary break with earlier landscape painting, and in many ways anticipates the work of the Impressionists. In brilliant text and commentaries, John Walker, distinguished scholar and Director Emeritus of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, provides an insightful account of Constable's life and career. Drawing on extensive correspondence between the artist and his family, friends, and patrons, Walker captures the essence of the man and his art. -- amazon.com
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