Reviews

This testament to the massive oeuvre of one of Europe's most celebrated painters begins with an illuminating biographical sketch by Feaver (former art critic for the Observer), which depicts Freud's journey from favorite son to mediocre student, from reveling womanizer to husband and father. Readers looking for a window into Freud's remarkable method and vision will benefit from the extensive quotes in this section, as well as the four interviews provided. The paintings themselves, richly reproduced, are intense portraits featuring a dark conflict between stark realism and profound emotional pull; his figures, usually nude, capture the vacancy and impact of death in their alarmingly static expressions. Freud's self-taught skill and precision are evident on every page in his careful, heavy brushstrokes (he often cleaned the brush after each stroke) and representational precision. Coming into fruition in the era of pop art and abstract expressionism, Freud emerged, amazingly, as a figurative painter in the most traditional sense: "Expressionism is a translation from what is in life," Freud said. "Expressionism is exaggerated." In light of the stunning work displayed here, his negative opinion of the genre is earned. A necessity for art scholars and an absolute pleasure for the novice, this gorgeous collection of Freud's discomforting work is perfectly fitting in scope and heft. (Nov.) Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.

This copiously illustrated volume showcases over 60 years of the work of one of the world's greatest figurative artists. Selected in collaboration with Lucian Freud himself, the 380 paintings of nudes, cityscapes, interiors, and etchings are reproduced in beautiful color images. Feaver, former art critic for the Observer, follows the development of Freud's art, showing how the artist broadened from a linear style in the 1950s to the more painterly, dense, and expansive style characteristic of his mature work. Also emphasized are the revealing nude portraits of Freud's own family and friends. Four interviews with the artist offer revealing glimpses into his working methods, such as why he preferred focusing on forms and rhythms. The volume is laden with both engaging text and images. But its price is steep, making it most suitable for large university and museum libraries. Robert Hughes's Lucian Freud: Paintings is another, less expensive option.-Sandra Rothenberg, Framingham State Coll., MA Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information.