History of Press Graphics. 1819-1921

An illustrated press, where images are as important as text, has become a rare art form. This comprehensive collection celebrates the golden age of graphic journalism from 1819 to 1921, featuring renowned artists and pioneering influences on modern art. It also explores Vincent Van Gogh's inspiration from the illustrated press, considering it a Bible for Artists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 604 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2023
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

In the fast-paced world of instant snapshots, 24-hour news, and round-the-clock connectivity, the art of illustrated press has become a rare gem. This comprehensive collection pays homage to the golden age of graphic journalism, a distinct and unique genre that served as a fertile ground for developing avant-garde aesthetics. Spanning from 1819 to 1921, the collection showcases a wide array of news graphics and political and satirical cartoons. Alongside renowned artists like Jean Cocteau, Juan Gris, and Käthe Kollwitz, the most famous illustrators of the time are also well represented. Thomas Nast, Honoré Daumier, Gustave Doré, and the numerous relatively unknown press graphic artists, known as the "special artists," whose work is rediscovered here, are also given their due recognition. Their rich and varied press work is considered not only in connection to the genre and the historical painting of the 19th century but also in its capacity as a pioneering influence on modern art. With striking examples of proto-cinematic narrative thinking, disruptions of the single image space, and daring forays into abstraction, this material is shown to have laid the groundwork for much of the avant-garde artistic expression that followed.

The book also delves into Vincent Van Gogh's meticulous attention to the illustrated press of his time. Inspired not only by the artistic aspect but also by the spirit of social reform that it represented, Van Gogh was an avid collector of press graphics, considering it a Bible for Artists. His extensive collection reflects his deep appreciation for the medium and its role in shaping artistic expression.

In conclusion, this remarkable collection celebrates the rich heritage of illustrated press, showcasing its significance as a genre that pushed the boundaries of creativity and expression. It provides a glimpse into the minds art historical and cultural significance of this art form, highlighting its pioneering role in shaping the artistic landscape of the 19th century and beyond.

Weight: 4112g
Dimension: 276 x 381 x 275 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836507868
Edition number: Multilingual ed