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Constable

A Portrait
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( 29 ratings, 4 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Constable by James Hamilton is an insightful biography that explores the life and legacy of the renowned English landscape painter John Constable. Delving into his artistic journey, the book details his struggle for recognition and the influences behind his iconic works, set against the backdrop of the evolving art world. Hamilton's narrative captures the essence of Constable's personal and professional life, offering readers a vivid portrayal of this influential artist.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by the life and artistry of one of Britain's most celebrated landscape painters. It offers a compelling exploration of the artist's personal and professional journey, enhancing your appreciation of his contributions to art and cultural history.

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A fresh biography of the revolutionary British landscape painter John Constable, from the author of Gainsborough, a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week and The Times, Sunday Times and Observer book of the year

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

ONE OF THE TIMES AND SUNDAY TIMES' BEST BOOKS FOR 2022

SHORTLISTED FOR THE POL ROGER DUFF COOPER PRIZE 2023

'Eye-opening and full of surprises . . . A treasure' Sunday Times

'A biography as rich with colourful characters as any novel' Telegraph

Constable by James Hamilton unveils the fascinating life of John Constable, the revolutionary nineteenth-century painter famed for his landscapes and skies of southern England. Though beloved by many, Constable remains perhaps Britain's least understood artist.

Constable's paintings shocked and perplexed his contemporaries with their detailed attention, spontaneous gestures, and bold use of colour. His works reveal a keen local knowledge of Suffolk, a precise expression of Hampstead's skyscapes, insights into the human tides of London and Brighton, and a capability to express silent, suppressed passion in his depictions of Salisbury Cathedral.

An active correspondent, Constable's letters and diariesβ€”over one thousand of themβ€”expose a man brimming with passion, opinion, and discord. His vibrant character emerges through these writings, which also illuminate the lives and dynamics of his family members, painting a vivid social and economic backdrop that frames Constable himself.

In Constable, James Hamilton presents a complex, troubled man, dismantling previous myths to establish Constable as a giant of European art within his correct historical context.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

James Hamilton's biography of John Constable is praised for its vibrant narrative and in-depth character portrayal, almost resembling a novel. It presents a complex and insightful view of Constable's personality, relationships, and the socio-political context of his time. The biography reveals the painter's struggle for acceptance and highlights his radical art style, with rich illustrations enhancing the storytelling. Hamilton's adept use of Constable's personal writings adds depth, making the book both an engaging and enlightening read about the renowned landscape artist.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781474612920

Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 16 February 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Weidenfeld & Nicolson

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 32.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 400g

Pages: 496

About the Author

James Hamilton is an art and cultural historian. His books include TURNER: A LIFE, shortlisted for the James Tait Black Memorial Prize, and A STRANGE BUSINESS: MAKING ART AND MONEY IN NINETEENTH-CENTURY BRITAIN, which in 2014 was named Art Book of the Year by the SUNDAY TIMES. Hamilton was curator of art collections and projects in Portsmouth, Wakefield, Sheffield, Leeds and the University of Birmingham, where he is a Fellow of the Barber Institute of Fine Arts.

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