Customer Reviews:
Art historian must have!.......2007-09-28
Just buy it. You won't be sorry. Great images and lots of informative discussion of imagery.
The Other Half of the Renaissance.......2007-08-25
Books on the Renaissance can be quite confusing to non-specialists. For example, Shakespeare classes in English schools discuss him as a Renaissance writer. Yet art teachers describe his near contemporary, Rubens, as the quintessential Baroque artist!
So exactly what does Northern Renaissance Art cover? Is it an age that can be separated, marked out and surveyed by political or religious activities? And by northern what is meant? Is Switzerland the home of northern art? Can it be made in Italy? And what makes it significant and different from the universally recognized world of Italian Renaissance Art, where the term 'art' is always capitalized?
Well, the truth lies pretty much with all of the above. As Snyder shows, several distinct cultures fall into this very large historical category. If you're buying this book as a student for a class, I can only hope you have more than one semester to give to the material. Northern Renaissance Art covers an enormous time period and many countries. It approaches in diversity the far better known works and ideas of the Italian Renaissance. No one seriously discusses the Italian Renaissance in a single semester - the material is taught in a series of classes. The same limitations and requirements should apply to teaching the Northern Renaissance. Art history today no longer focuses on aesthetic questions of style; as a result a student faces a lifetime's study of a period's culture and history.
However, there are some basics. If one word could define what separates the two worlds of the Italian and Northern Renaissance - that word would have to be naturalism. Northern European artists revel in achievements of realism that far surpass the Italians, who, while perfectly capable of such stylistic work, prefer a more intellectually formalized approach. Indeed, Michelangelo dismissed northern artist's attention to nature and care for photographic details as incidental, and excessively ephemeral, when contrasted to his Italian art which used images for projecting deeper spiritual values. The public, however, was delighted with the landscapes, and their non-abstract openness. Many artists from the north specialized in landscape, and it became a manner so associated with them that it was not uncommon for Italian painters to hire Northern artists to fill in the 'less important' landscape backgrounds of their larger canvases.
The Italian Renaissance differed also in that it was singularly connected to the revival and reappreciation of ancient 'pagan' works of art. These antiquities provided a challenge, as well as a reawakening, for the artists and thinkers of Italy. In the north artists did not have at hand magnificent works of ancient architecture or sculpture: as a result intellectual challenges were quite different; though initially tied to the Italian thinking, the northern artists more and more shifted focus onto their own immediate world. As the fifteenth century closed they became attuned to newer discoveries from the exploration of new (not ancient)worlds by sea, and the individuals emancipation brought about through the beginnings of Protestant thought. For moderns this means that the Northern Renaissance often appears closer to us and our own post photographic record of the world. The artist's sense of intimacy with nature seems little different than what most of us know as landscape art. Their religious works also convey a striking ease with space less contrived than our eyes find the representation of space in most Italian painting of the same era. All made the more attractive for being so accessible. Some of this difference marks profound religious and philosophical differences - northern art has about it some of the fervor of emancipation - there is here a reflection of the Armana naturalism revolting against the old art of a more dogmatic less individualistic Egypt. Eventually Italian artists would adapt to this new naturalism, especially in the north of Italy in Venice, in the works of Bellini, Giorgione, and Titian.
This book introduces the reader to the early Flemish master painters, such as Van Eyck and Rogier van der Weyden, the later great German artists, such as Durer and Holbein and Grunewald, and the strange inner universe of Bosch. Topping off the age are the works of one of the grandest of all humanists, Pieter Bruegel the elder. And these are just some of the great painters! There remains a wealth of sculpture and architecture, drawing and craft work. Moreover, the Northern Renaissance is also an artistic universe filled with fresh new theories and a milieu profoundly effected by the great religious upheaval of the Reformation.
Snyder gives as good an overview of so much material as one could hope for - his work replete with an enormous number of images, many of which have for nearly half a millenium been accepted as iconic. The text treats the material with a practised consideration, born of many years study. However; the impetus of the book is to direct the reader further afield, and this is indisputably the author's greatest achievement and the point of such a survey work. The real jewels for readers will be enlarging these discoveries by travel and on site awareness, these efforts made more satisfying through study of specific texts directed at the new artists whose work transforms your view of what the Renaissance was.
The Northern Renaissance.......2006-02-26
I am using this book as a text in school and I am quite impressed. I bought this book (hardcover) for half the price of the paper back version sold at my school. The text in interesting, not dry. The images are good reproductions. The only thing that I don't admire about the book is that some of the images are printed in black and white.
The Northern Renaissance.......2006-02-26
I am using this book as a text in school and I am quite impressed. I bought this book (hardcover) for half the price of the paper back version sold at my school. The text in interesting, not dry. The images are good reproductions. The only thing that I don't admire about the book is that some of the images are printed in black and white.
A Truly Superb Book.......2006-02-01
The book truly is superb in both commentary and the reproductions of the paintings accompanying the text. It is stunningly beautiful and truly captures the feeling and depth of the Renaissance in northern Europe.
Average customer rating:
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Decorative Glass of the 19th and Early 20th Centuries: A Source Book
Nance Lui Fyson
Manufacturer: David & Charles
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
| Architecture
| Professional & Technical
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Schools, Periods & Styles
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| Abstract Expressionism
| Ancient & Classical
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Windows
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ASIN: 0715304976 |
Book Description
Bring a dash of colour to windows, doors and household glassware with this comprehensive and enjoyable guide.
Taking inspiration from the luminous beauty of stained glass, painting on glass is a simple yet dramatically effective decorative technique which involves little cost and, with the help of this book, can be enjoyed by all artistic abilities. A complete introduction to the craft, it contains a complete guide to materials and techniques, a host of projects to try, a library of trace-off motifs and an invaluable trouble shooting section. Decorate plates, glasses, bottles, trinket boxes, mirrors, picture frames, vases, cabinet doors, storage jars and many other items with the ideas presented here. Detailed step-by- step instructions are accompanied by specially commissioned colour photographs of the projects to ensure success every time.
Once you have started painting on glass, you will find it hard to stop, and will never look at a plain glass surface in the same way again!
Jane Dunsterville is one of Britain's leading glass painting specialists. A trained interior and exhibition designer, her love of stained glass has led her to practise that craft and diversify into glass painting. Jane and her husband run a successful business, Dunsterville Craft and Design, which makes and supplies glass painting kits, and runs courses on the craft. This is Jane's second book for David & Charles, her first being Glass Painting Projects, written with her husband. Jane lives in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.
Customer Reviews:
Just an OK to sub par book for glass painting.......2006-02-10
Just beginning glass painting and swayed by the previous glowing reviews, I purchased a copy of "The Glass Painting Book" by Jane Dunsterville. Also, the photo of the gorgeous painted mirror on the back cover certainly helped! I will say that I am VERY disappointed as the book didn't meet my expections.
Since this book is geared towards "the first-time glass painter", I anticipated some discussion about different kinds of glass paints, different techniques, ideas, etc. The book only glosses over these introductory subjects.
For example, in her "Materials and Equipment" section, she discusses different kinds of glass paints. Some paints need baking and some are air drying only, or that some are more translucent than others. This is all fine and good, but I want to know what types and brands of paint are currently on the market, what are the benefits of using one kind over another, how many looks can I achieve (like stained glass), etc. There is a supplier index in the back, and it may be useful to those people residing in the UK, but there is only ONE supplier listed for the US. And I didn't realize QVC was a major supplier of glass paints to the US! NOT!
Introductory paint projects should be written as scientific experiments: very detailed and easy to replicate. This is not the author's approach. She doesn't even tell you the color paints needed or how to replicate the "look" of the project. For the painted mirror project (as pictured on the back cover) she states a GENERAL list of materials (mirror, your design, glass paints, etc). There is NO instruction on technique in the project steps! They are trivial ... clean mirror, transfer design, paint over black outline, etc. I suppose the author relies soley on the 1-2 pages in which she discusses techniques in the beginning of the book. But how some of the projects looks are achieved remain a mystery as many of the "techniques" discussed should not be categorized as such. Cleaning the glass and paint smudges are not painting "techniques". The author gives artistic license to the new student prematurely by advising to "experiment" which actually disguises the lack of teaching direction from the author.
On the upside, the book has beautiful pictures of the projects and useful design stencils.
Overall, I do not recommend this book. I was very disappointed especially given the previous reviews. I have learned more about beginning glass painting on my own than through this book.
The Glass Painting Book.......2000-05-23
I was so struck by the beauty and vivid colors of the projects in this book that I just had to buy it. The picture lanterns on page 30 are of interest to me for they require no special glass, just old jars and such that we all have around, or can find at flea markets for little cost and we actually recycle and make them beautiful by painting. I also love her kindly faces of the Sun & Moon........just beautiful. Her techniques are clear and easy to follow. The book is just so EXCITING!
Just what I was looking for!!.......1998-10-17
When looking for a glass painting book, I was after a book that not only showed me how to create the effect I am looking for, but to also give me idea's on what I want to paint. This book has it all. Technique, colour as well as design ideas. Brilliant!!
Excellant pictures and easy to follow methods.......1998-03-25
What can I say? Jane Dunsterville has created a masterpiece of a book. The pictures and related text are very clear and the instructions for the projects are easy to follow. Glass painting is a fascinating craft that can be used to decorate anything from a tooth brush holder to a full window. Jane shows you how to get the best from any given media.
Customer Reviews:
Plants in glass cases like mineature conservatories........2000-03-30
They are reminiscent of a bygone era. These 30 patterns for terrariums and planters are ideal as beginner, intermediate and advanced projects. All have a materials list, color photo and illustrations. Projects include: bowls, planters, vases, terrariums and a Wardian case, in a variety of types and sizes. They are thoughtful gifts, valued for their rarity and skill of construction. Black and white photos demonstrate construction techniques.
Book Description
Simple, elegant designs, easily adaptable as templates, most in elongated rectangles, with some half-circle fanlight designs as well as ovals and circles. The subjects range from trellised roses, soaring birds, and bouquets of tulips to geometric and abstract designs. Publisher's Note.
Customer Reviews:
Beautiful designs.......2007-01-10
I love this book! They're all either floral and/or curvy designs. Just what I was looking for to do a sidelight in a doorway. I highly recommend it. It's in black and white so you have to use your imagination to color it. I just wish they put more designs in this book.
Excelent book and great designs!.......2006-07-06
This book has great patters for doors that could be used in other applications. The only problem I found is that it does not show any colors.
Good Variety.......2000-06-09
This volumn contains a good all-around variety of patterns and schemes. Most designs are three to a page (8.5 x 11). They require enlarging. The range of difficulty varies, most look intricate in the small size on the page but when enlarged to window size the number of peices per square foot is reasonable.
The patterns are (or can be) grouped into coordinated window sets, for example: a doorway with matching sidelights and a fanlight. Most of the patterns include flowers, but not all. Some the the themes include hummingbirds (very nice) blended with flowers, a dove, herons, sea gulls, callas, irises, daffodills, roses, tulips, morning glories, grapes with vines, dogwood (geomatical), parrots, landscapes (sailboat, sunsets with a bird and water), and geometrics (good for bevels).
I have used some of the flower details extracted from the overall patterns.
Customer Reviews:
Attractive stained glass patterns, none of them dorky.......2006-08-23
I'm just finishing the first lamp that I've made using a pattern from Northern Shades. Overall, I'm very pleased with the pattern and its instructions -- though I'm glad that I made my *first* lamp with a live teacher demonstrating the techniques.
That's not to say that you're on your own. While the book has only a single photo of each of the 25 lamps, the pictures are large and clear enough for you to get the details. The first part of the book explains the steps in lamp construction, with many black and white photos to demonstrate the process. It might have been daunting if that's all I had, however! (Or maybe I just prefer personal instruction.)
None of the designs are lame, and most of them are really pretty. The lamps range in size from an 8" diameter to 21". It's convenient to have the patterns in full size, too; you don't have to worry about inaccuracies creeping in from photocopies.
Most of all, however, I appreciate the clear shopping list for each lamp; each one is rated for difficulty, has technical specifications (such as all measurements and the number of pieces), and a materials list. You can walk into the glass shop knowning that you need 3.25 sq ft of dark green opal, 1/2 sq ft of light green, and a 2.5" vase cap.
My only caveat -- and it's not really the author's fault -- is that you have to pay attention to the availability of supplies. The lamp I chose called for kite-shaped bevels in a size that is no longer available. I did just fine by cutting kites from textured glass, but I confess that I stamped my foot in frustration, a few times, before I chose that alternative.
Great book, though. Recommended.
Most attractive shades!.......2000-07-30
The proportions of the shades are really beautiful. One of the best shade pattern books on the market.
Average customer rating:
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Glass Painting (The Art of Crafts)
Naazish Chouglay
Manufacturer: Trafalgar Square Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound
General
| Painting
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
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General
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
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Glass & Glassware
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
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Painting
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1861262272 |
Book Description
The effect of light falling through colored glass has always been a source of delight and fascination, but the art of stained glass is extremely complex and time-consuming. Similar effects, however, can be achieved with the new art of glass painting-using transparent paints to decorate everyday objects or to create your own works of art. Glass Painting is a complete introduction to the craft, leading the reader from the history of the decoration of traditional stained glass through to the modern materials available today. The appeal of the craft is the simplicity with which even a beginner can design and complete a decorated vase, a child's mobile, or a candleholder in just an afternoon. Each of the book's projects is accompanied by patterns, designs, templates, and variations. Generously illustrated throughout with crisp color photos and watercolor paintings, this is an ideal guide for both beginners and more experienced glass painters.
Customer Reviews:
I love this book!.......2003-04-20
The book discusses the art/techniques/history behind glass painting and features step-by-step instructions in creating some of the most stylish and practical projects you can make. Perfect for a beginner!
Book Description
Glass painting offers experienced and novice crafters alike an exciting, versatile hobby. In this inspiring and practical guide, Cheryl Owen explains to readers all they need to know to transform everyday glass objects into magical gifts and decorative items.
They'll find 25 exciting projects inside, including a paisley bowl, summer fruit glasses, night lights, Mediterranean oil bottles, an elephant suncatcher, a frosted leaf vase, Christmas decorations and more.
They'll also find valuable tips for sourcing glass and materials, plus instructions for executing basic techniques, including stenciling, template making and troubleshooting. A useful resources section ensures readers will have all the tools and materials they need.
Customer Reviews:
Attractive lamps, full size patterns!.......2000-07-30
I love this type of stained glass pattern book. All patterns are full size, which is important for 3D projects (enlarging with a photocopier causes distortions which prevents the pieces from fitting perfectly). You know how much glass to buy - it's all indicated. There are photographs of completed projects, for every project. It's fun to try to make an even better lamp that what they show in the book by buying fancier, even textured glass!
Books:
- The Portable Dorothy Parker (Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition)
- The Professor's House (Vintage Classics)
- The Singapore Grip (New York Review Books Classics)
- The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (Modern Library)
- The Towers of Trebizond (New York Review Books Classics)
- Therese Raquin (Penguin Classics)
- Three Men in a Boat: To Say Nothing of the Dog (Tor Classics)
- Tropic of Capricorn (Miller, Henry)
- Uncle Tom's Cabin: Or, Life Among the Lowly (The Penguin American Library)
- A Narrative of a Revolutionary Soldier
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