What are angels? William Blake maintains he saw one in Peckham, but few people have been blessed with such a revelation. This book looks at 28 paintings from medieval times onwards in the search for answers. The angels depicted include the glowing beings painted by Fra Angelico, as well as the innocent creatures depicted by Rossetti. Works by Leonardo, Botticelli, Grunewald and Bellini are also included. The accompanying narrative explains the paintings, and what each angel is doing, as well as providing biographical information on the painter. Some of the pictures are shown in their entirety, others in detail only.
Discover the celestial realm through the eyes of master artists in Caroline Johnson's captivating book, "Angels." This beautifully curated hardcover edition, published by Fount in 1993, invites you on a visual journey through centuries of artistic interpretations of angels, from the medieval period to more modern depictions. Weighing 276 grams and spanning 64 pages, this book offers a portable and enriching art experience. Have you ever wondered about the nature of angels? William Blake famously claimed to have seen one, and this book, with ISBN 9780006276944, provides a more accessible path to understanding these enigmatic beings through art. Caroline Johnson presents a carefully selected collection of 28 paintings, offering a diverse range of angelic portrayals. Immerse yourself in the radiant visions of Fra Angelico, whose glowing figures capture the divine essence of angels. Explore the innocent and ethereal depictions by Rossetti, reflecting a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility. The book also features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Grunewald, and Bellini, each offering a unique perspective on the role and appearance of angels in art and faith. Johnsons accompanying narrative provides invaluable context for each painting. She elucidates the symbolism and meaning behind the angels' actions and attributes, delving into the stories they represent. Furthermore, she offers biographical insights into the lives and artistic approaches of the painters themselves, enhancing your appreciation of their creative processes. The book showcases both full images of the artworks, allowing you to appreciate the composition as a whole, and detailed close-ups, revealing intricate brushwork and subtle nuances. This approach allows for a deeper engagement with the artistry and allows the viewer to fully appreciate the details that bring the subjects to life. Angels is not just a collection of paintings; it's a guide to understanding the evolution of angelic representation in art and its cultural significance. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a student of religious iconography, or simply curious about the celestial, this book offers a fascinating and visually stunning exploration of a timeless subject. With a Dewey Decimal classification of 704.94864, this book will find itself at home in any art or theology collection.