Closer Look

Still Life

Langmuir Erika

What is still life? We are familiar with the objects portrayed but have difficulty explaining the essence of this popular art form. Erika Langmuir examines the special fascination of still life, and what distinguishes it from other categories of painting. She discusses its evolution from the trompe l'oeil wall paintings of antiquity, through its revival in the age of Caravaggio and Velazquez, and again in the works of Cezanne and Picasso. Originally published as "Pocket Guide Still Life", this eloquent survey benefits from a wider format, new reproductions and updated references.

About the Author

Erika Langmuir, OBE, was educated in France and the United States. She has taught at the University of Sussex and held the Chair of Art History at the Open University. She was Head of Education at the National Gallery (1988-1995).

Reviews

"An excellent series, 'A Closer Look at... ', which guides us through the collections of the National Gallery... so lavishly illustrated, they represent very good value for money indeed" – Michael Glover, The Independent

Back to the list of books