From Library Journal
Klein (art history, Univ. of Missouri, Columbia) uses Matisse's portraits to illustrate various aspects of portraiture, from the social, philosophical, historical, and psychological to the purely painterly. Through vivid descriptions of the paintings and discussions of the artist's relationships with his sitters family, friends, patrons, colleagues, etc. he develops the initial broad theoretical discussion of portraiture into a particular chronological analysis of the meaning of portrait painting to Matisse's life and work. Some of Matisse's paintings of his wife are distant, while portraits of his daughter seem more intimate, however isolated she may appear. Especially interesting is the artist's portrayal of himself throughout his life, revealing his introspection, integrity, and persona. John Russell's Matisse: Father and Son (LJ 5/15/99) will satisfy the desire for more details on the artist's character and family life. Here, however, Klein provides a novel approach to understanding one of the 20th century's most important artists as well as a fresh definition of a heretofore ill-defined genre. Lush illustrations are plentiful throughout. Artists and art students interested in portraiture, as well as specialists, will want this book. Recommended for all types of Western art book collections. Ellen Bates, New York
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