Letters of Paul Cezanne

Cézanne's letters are a testament to his intellectual and artistic brilliance, offering a unique insight into his thoughts, relationships, and vision. Alex Danchev's translation captures his voice in his own idiomatic style, revealing a more profound and human side of the legend.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 25 July 2019
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

A true visionary and an unwavering pursuer of artistic truth, Cézanne dedicated a significant portion of his boundless intellect and razor-sharp wit to his letters. This remarkable translation by Alex Danchev is the result of a meticulous re-examination of Cézanne's extensive correspondence with family, friends, and prominent figures from the literary and artistic realms.

Danchev's remarkable accomplishment is to bring Cézanne's voice to English readers in his own distinctive, idiosyncratic manner. And the Cézanne we thought we knew is remarkably different – richer, wittier, wiser, more philosophical, more irascible, and, above all, more fully human. The letters offer fresh insights into his artistic vision, politics, friendships, psychology, philosophy, literary tastes, and classical frame of reference. They provide an intimate glimpse into the preoccupations and personality of a legendary figure.

In his letters, Cézanne revealed a profound understanding of the human condition, employing his unique perspective to explore the complexities of life, love, art, and society. His words are filled with humor, insight, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world around him. Through his letters, we gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the masterpieces, as he shares his thoughts, dreams, and struggles with his closest confidants.

The letters also shed light on Cézanne's artistic process, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to his craft. He discusses his techniques, inspirations, and the challenges he faced in his pursuit of artistic excellence. His insights into the creative process are invaluable to artists and art enthusiasts alike, as they offer a glimpse into the mind of a true master.

Moreover, Cézanne's letters reveal his political and social convictions, showcasing his commitment to social justice and his belief in the power of art to change the world. He discusses his interactions with political figures, his thoughts on the French Revolution, and his views on the role of artists in society. His letters are a testament to his intellectual and political prowess, as well as his belief in the importance of using art to promote social change.

In conclusion, Cézanne's letters are a treasure trove of artistic, intellectual, and personal insights. Through this translation, Alex Danchev has brought Cézanne's voice to English readers in a way that is both accessible and engaging. The letters offer a unique perspective on the life and work of a legendary artist, providing a deeper understanding of his artistic vision, politics, friendships, psychology, philosophy, literary tastes, and classical frame of reference. They are a testament to Cézanne's enduring legacy and his ability to inspire and transform the world through his art.

Weight: 774g
Dimension: 168 x 241 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500295175