The Best Portraits in Engraving By: Charles Sumner (1811-1874)
In Charles Sumner's latest publication, The Best Portraits in Engraving, readers are transported on a captivating journey through the illustrious art of portrait engraving. Drawing from his extensive knowledge as a renowned art historian, Sumner skillfully presents a comprehensive collection of remarkable engravings that showcase the mastery and intricacy of this unique art form. One of the most impressive aspects of this book is the meticulous curation of portraits, which spans various time periods, styles, and artists. Sumner adeptly highlights the diversity and technical prowess required for engraving, allowing readers to appreciate the evolution of this fascinating medium over the centuries. From delicate Renaissance portraits to bold and striking modern images, the selection presented in this volume is truly a testament to the pinnacle of human creativity. Equally engaging is Sumner's insightful commentary that accompanies each engraving. His analysis provides invaluable context and understanding, exploring the significance of each artwork within its historical and cultural framework. Whether discussing the artist's intentions, the subject's identity, or the engraving technique employed, Sumner's expertise shines through, enriching the reader's experience and offering new perspectives on these timeless masterpieces. In addition to the exceptional curation and analysis, the quality of the reproductions in this publication is outstanding. The exquisite detail captured in each engraving is faithfully conveyed, allowing readers to fully appreciate the intricacies of the original artwork. The careful attention to color, texture, and shading is evident throughout, translating the depth and fidelity of these engravings onto the printed page. While the book primarily focuses on the engravings themselves, one minor drawback is the lack of information on the artists behind the works. Although Sumner occasionally mentions their names in passing, it would have been valuable to explore their backgrounds and artistic philosophies in more detail. Such insights could have deepened the reader's understanding of the engravings and fostered a stronger connection with the artists themselves. Nevertheless, The Best Portraits in Engraving remains a captivating and indispensable addition to any art enthusiast's collection. Charles Sumner's expertly curated selection, combined with his erudite analysis, offers a fascinating exploration of the world of portrait engraving. This visually striking volume is sure to inspire and delight readers, serving as a testament to the enduring power and beauty of this timeless art form. First Page: THE BEST PORTRAITS IN ENGRAVING. BY CHARLES SUMNER. Fifth Edition. FREDERICK KEPPEL & CO. NEW YORK, 20 EAST 16th STREET. LONDON, PARIS, 3 DUKE STREET, ADELPHI. 27 QUAI DE L'HORLOGE. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1875, by FREDERICK KEPPEL, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. THE BEST PORTRAITS IN ENGRAVING. Engraving is one of the fine arts, and in this beautiful family has been the especial handmaiden of painting. Another sister is now coming forward to join this service, lending to it the charm of color. If, in our day, the "chromo" can do more than engraving, it cannot impair the value of the early masters. With them there is no rivalry or competition. Historically, as well as æsthetically, they will be masters always. Everybody knows something of engraving, as of printing, with which it was associated in origin. School books, illustrated papers, and shop windows are the ordinary opportunities open to all. But while creating a transient interest, or, perhaps, quickening the taste, they furnish little with regard to the art itself, especially in other days. And yet, looking at an engraving, like looking at a book, may be the beginning of a new pleasure and a new study. Each person has his own story. Mine is simple... Continue reading book >>

The Best Portraits in Engraving By: Charles Sumner (1811-1874)

In Charles Sumner's latest publication, The Best Portraits in Engraving, readers are transported on a captivating journey through the illustrious art of portrait engraving. Drawing from his extensive knowledge as a renowned art historian, Sumner skillfully presents a comprehensive collection of remarkable engravings that showcase the mastery and intricacy of this unique art form.

One of the most impressive aspects of this book is the meticulous curation of portraits, which spans various time periods, styles, and artists. Sumner adeptly highlights the diversity and technical prowess required for engraving, allowing readers to appreciate the evolution of this fascinating medium over the centuries. From delicate Renaissance portraits to bold and striking modern images, the selection presented in this volume is truly a testament to the pinnacle of human creativity.

Equally engaging is Sumner's insightful commentary that accompanies each engraving. His analysis provides invaluable context and understanding, exploring the significance of each artwork within its historical and cultural framework. Whether discussing the artist's intentions, the subject's identity, or the engraving technique employed, Sumner's expertise shines through, enriching the reader's experience and offering new perspectives on these timeless masterpieces.

In addition to the exceptional curation and analysis, the quality of the reproductions in this publication is outstanding. The exquisite detail captured in each engraving is faithfully conveyed, allowing readers to fully appreciate the intricacies of the original artwork. The careful attention to color, texture, and shading is evident throughout, translating the depth and fidelity of these engravings onto the printed page.

While the book primarily focuses on the engravings themselves, one minor drawback is the lack of information on the artists behind the works. Although Sumner occasionally mentions their names in passing, it would have been valuable to explore their backgrounds and artistic philosophies in more detail. Such insights could have deepened the reader's understanding of the engravings and fostered a stronger connection with the artists themselves.

Nevertheless, The Best Portraits in Engraving remains a captivating and indispensable addition to any art enthusiast's collection. Charles Sumner's expertly curated selection, combined with his erudite analysis, offers a fascinating exploration of the world of portrait engraving. This visually striking volume is sure to inspire and delight readers, serving as a testament to the enduring power and beauty of this timeless art form.

First Page:

THE BEST PORTRAITS IN ENGRAVING.

CHARLES SUMNER.

Fifth Edition.

FREDERICK KEPPEL & CO.

NEW YORK, 20 EAST 16th STREET.

LONDON, PARIS,

3 DUKE STREET, ADELPHI. 27 QUAI DE L'HORLOGE.

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1875, by

FREDERICK KEPPEL,

In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington.

THE BEST PORTRAITS IN ENGRAVING.

Engraving is one of the fine arts, and in this beautiful family has been the especial handmaiden of painting. Another sister is now coming forward to join this service, lending to it the charm of color. If, in our day, the "chromo" can do more than engraving, it cannot impair the value of the early masters. With them there is no rivalry or competition. Historically, as well as æsthetically, they will be masters always.

Everybody knows something of engraving, as of printing, with which it was associated in origin. School books, illustrated papers, and shop windows are the ordinary opportunities open to all. But while creating a transient interest, or, perhaps, quickening the taste, they furnish little with regard to the art itself, especially in other days. And yet, looking at an engraving, like looking at a book, may be the beginning of a new pleasure and a new study.

Each person has his own story. Mine is simple... Continue reading book >>

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