Title
The Grand Affair: John Singer Sargent In His World,New
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A Wall Street Journal and Times Literary Supplement Book of the Year Longlisted for the Plutarch AwardA bold new biography of the legendary painter John Singer Sargent, stressing the unruly emotions and furtive desires that drove his innovative work and defined the transatlantic, fin de sicle culture he inhabited.A great American artist, John Singer Sargent is also an abiding enigma. While dressing like a businessman and crafting a highly respectable persona, he scandalized viewers on both sides of the Atlantic with the frankness and sensuality of his work. He charmed the nouveaux riches as well as the old money, but he reserved his greatest sympathies for Bedouins, Spanish dancers, and the gondoliers of Venice. At the height of his renown in Britain and America, he quit his lucrative portraitpainting career to concentrate on allegorical murals with religious themesand on nude drawings of male models that he kept to himself.In The Grand Affair, the historian Paul Fisher offers a vivid life of the buttonedup artist and his unbuttoned work. Sargents nervy, edgy portraits exposed illicit or dark feelings in himself and his sittersfeelings that high society on both sides of the Atlantic found fascinating and offputting. Fisher traces Singers life from his wandering transEuropean childhood to the salons of Paris, and the scandals and enthusiasms he caused, and on to London. There he mixed with eccentrics and aristocrats, and the likes of Henry James and Oscar Wilde, while at the same time forming a close relationship with a lightweight boxer who became his model, valet, and traveling partner. In later years, Sargent met up with his friend and patron Isabella Stewart Gardner around the world and devoted himself to a new model, the African American elevator operator and parttime contortionist Thomas McKeller, who would become the subject of some of Sargents most daring and powerful work.Illuminating Sargents restless itinerary, Fisher explores the enigmas of fin de sicle sexuality and art, fashioning a biography that grants the man and his paintings new and intense life.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: The book has four hundred ninety-six pages. This length allows for an in-depth exploration of John Singer Sargent's life and work.
- Q: What is the binding type of the book? A: The book is hardcover. This binding offers durability and a premium feel, making it suitable for collectors.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point thirty-five inches in length, one point fifty-five inches in width, and nine point twenty-five inches in height. These dimensions make it easy to handle and store.
- Q: How do I read this biography? A: You can read this biography as you would any book, starting from the beginning and progressing to the end. It is designed for general readers interested in art history and biography.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: This book may not be suitable for young readers. It contains complex themes around art and society that are more appropriate for adults.
- Q: What themes are covered in this book? A: The book covers themes of art, sexuality, and the life of John Singer Sargent. It delves into the emotional depth of his work and the cultural context of his time.
- Q: How should I store this book to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book upright on a shelf, away from direct sunlight and humidity. This will help preserve the binding and pages.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions to prevent damage.
- Q: How do I ensure the book stays in good condition? A: To keep the book in good condition, avoid bending the pages and store it properly. Handle it with clean hands to prevent dirt transfer.
- Q: Is this book a good choice for someone interested in art history? A: Yes, this book is an excellent choice for anyone interested in art history. It provides insights into John Singer Sargent's life and the artistic movements of his time.
- Q: How does this biography compare to others about Sargent? A: This biography offers a unique perspective by emphasizing Sargent's emotional struggles and societal challenges. It may differ from more traditional art-focused biographies.
- Q: What if I receive a damaged copy of the book? A: If you receive a damaged copy, you should contact customer support for a replacement. Most retailers offer a return policy for damaged items.
- Q: Can I return the book if I don't like it? A: Yes, most retailers allow returns if you are unsatisfied with the book. Check the specific return policy for the store where you purchased it.
- Q: Is there any warranty on this book? A: Typically, books do not come with a warranty. However, check with the retailer for their specific policies regarding returns or replacements.
- Q: What should I do if I have questions about the book? A: If you have questions, you can reach out to customer support or consult literary reviews for more information about the book.