Children of Mercury: The Lives of the Painters

Children of Mercury explores the lives of pre-modern painters through the lens of The Seven Ages of Man, tracing their journeys from infancy to maturity, old age, and death. It includes famous and forgotten artists, drawing on historic biographies, artists' writings, and physical evidence from their paintings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2022
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Children of Mercury is a groundbreaking exploration of the lives of pre-modern painters, offering a fresh perspective through the lens of The Seven Ages of Man, a widely recognized belief popularized in Shakespeare's renowned 'All the world's a stage' speech from As You Like It. Spanning from infancy to maturity, adolescence, adulthood, and old age, author Spike Bucklow intricately weaves the narratives of artists, shedding light on their journeys from obscurity to fame and from forgotten to celebrated. Through meticulous research and a unique blend of historical biographies, artists' own writings, and the visual evidence embedded in their paintings, Bucklow unveils the intricate tapestry of their lives.

The book delves into the lives of both male and female painters, showcasing renowned figures such as Michelangelo, Artemisia Gentileschi, and Mary Beale, as well as lesser-known artists who have left their mark on the art world. Bucklow's storytelling is captivating, taking readers on a journey through the artists' triumphs, struggles, and personal triumphs, providing a deep understanding of their creative processes and the societal contexts that shaped their lives.

One of the remarkable aspects of Children of Mercury is its reliance on physical evidence offered by the paintings themselves. By closely examining the brushstrokes, colors, and motifs used by the artists, Bucklow uncovers hidden narratives and sheds light on the artistic choices that shaped their careers. The book also explores the social and cultural contexts in which the painters lived, examining the influence of patronage, artistic movements, and societal norms on their work.

Through its comprehensive and engaging approach, Children of Mercury offers a fresh perspective on the lives of pre-modern painters, challenging traditional narratives and revealing the rich tapestry of artistic expression that flourished during this period. It is a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, historians, and anyone interested in exploring the human experience through the lens of art.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789145236