Vasari on Technique (Dover Art Instruction)

Vasari On Technique is a translation from the Italian of the original by Giorgio Vasari he himself a painter and architect of the fifteenth century.This 328 page book translated by Louisa S.Maclehose with an introduction and notes by Professor G. Baldwin Brown must find its place in everyone's home who is interested how the arts of architecture, painting and sculptor were carried out at the beginning of the Renaissance. In fact most of the details described are still followed today. I must add here that the translator went to great lengths to make this book as reliable as can be. She researched all the artists mentioned by Vasari and even lists the places were the various works of art mentioned are located today.In the chapter dealing with architecture the author goes on to great lengths in describing the various types of stone used at the time, how they were cut from the quarries and finished. How a piece of architectural design must possess to be perfect with a special reference to ancient Greek work.On dealing with sculptor here too he describes the way marble - the arch material for sculptor at the time (and in a way it still is) is carved and polished to attain the lifelike representation. Vasari describes so well the technique that even those who are not familiar with the subject will understand the process. Clay and other stones are given their due importance.Painting is the last item tackled. This includes stained glass, niello, enamel work and others too many to list. Oil, tempera and fresco are also tackled and explained the how to they were carried out. How colours were ground and mixed with oil or egg is another interesting item in the book.What I liked more in this exquisite translation is that at the end of each chapter whether dealing with architecture painting or sculptor Professor Baldwin gives his own clarification where Vasari was not that clear. Reference is made too to our modern times.This is a book which must really interest those who wish to know more about the technique of architecture, sculptor and painting. It is a priceless addition to any one's library. Highly recommended.

A wonderful addition to Vasari's Lives of the Artists. The information was very valuable for my art history classes and gave further insight into the artistic techniques and materials of specific artists of the Italian Renaissance. As an artist it is also valuable information concerning technique and materials that were used during his lifetime.

A gift I know little about this book except it was appreciated as a gift.

Most interesting and translated in an extremely accessible style - although there were far too many interruptions via explanatory footnotes - in some ways it would be nice to include them within the text so you are not continually looking up and down the page, as the interruptions contained necessary explanations - but in general a most fascinating book and a must have for any artist in my view. Great read.

Excelente