Description
Willem van Aelst was a prominent still life painter of the Dutch golden age known for his technique, composition, and sensitivity. Published in association with the first ever exhibition devoted to van Aelst's work, this collection of writings follows the painter's life and work from his boyhood in Delft, to his student years in Paris, the Court at Medici in Florence, and finally, Amsterdam. The exhibition features twenty of the best works selected from van Aelst's 150 known paintings worldwide. Essays by curators and art historians examine van Aelst's approach and technique alongside new photographs of the paintings, including many close-up detailed images showing his delicate brushwork. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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The paintings of Willem van Aelst (1627–1683) are known for their fine finish, innovative compositions, sumptuous subject matter, and rich, jewel-toned palette. Published on the occasion of an unprecedented traveling exhibition, this book celebrates Van Aelst’s achievements and his significant impact on Dutch still-life painting. Van Aelst masterfully depicted arrangements of fresh fruit and flowers, displays of dead game, and evocations of the forest floor, as well as elegant objects such as nautilus cups, distinctive silver vessels, and Venetian glassware. This book features twenty-five paintings from throughout his career. Catalog entries and a biographical essay are provided by Tanya Paul, James Clifton writes about the Medici court, Julie Berger Hochstrasser analyzes Van Aelst’s choice of subject matter, Arthur K. Wheelock Jr. discusses Van Aelst’s time in Amsterdam, and a team of conservators reveals his technical process.
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