A Concise History of Modern Sculpture by Herbert Read

A Concise History of Modern Sculpture

by Herbert Read

Thames and Hudson, 1971, ISBN 0500180288, colour and black and white illustrations, hardcover, dustjacket

Very Good Condition, minor edge and shelf wear, minor rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, library to title page, library stamps and sticker to back endpapers, dustjacket shows some edge and shelf wear, some creasing and chipping to edges (see photographs)

“This book traces the development of modern sculpture from Rodin to the present day, and brings order into the apparently chaotic proliferation of styles and techniques during this period.  First we see the foundation of modern sculpture being laid by Rodin, with important contributions from Maillol and painters like Degas and Matisse.  Then it is shown how another painter, Pablo Picasso, became responsible for several new developments in the art of sculpture, and due attention is given to his inventive genius in this medium.  The relation of sculpture to Cubism, Futurism, Expressionism and Surrealism is clarified, and the work of individual geniuses like Brancusi, Giacometti, Gabo and Henry Moore is carefully assessed.  It may be said of this volume as was said of its companion (A Concise History of Modern Painting) that in it Herbert Read brings to the subject not only the knowledge of a lifetime devoted to its study, but also the understanding of one who has himself participated in the creative adventure of modern art.”