Picasso: Selected Essays

The fourth volume in the Essays by Leo Steinberg series is titled Picasso, focusing on the artist Pablo Picasso. Steinberg was an innovative art historian who combined scholarly erudition with eloquent prose to illuminate his subjects. This volume includes previously studied essays and unpublished lectures, showcasing Steinberg's dedication to refining his writing's expository, interpretive, and rhetorical features.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2022
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

Leo Steinberg, a renowned art historian of the 20th century, is celebrated for his audacious approach to interpretation, which defied conventional norms and pushed the boundaries of the profession. His extensive essays and lectures, spanning from ancient masterpieces to contemporary art, seamlessly merged scholarly expertise with captivating prose, illuminating his subjects with clarity and depth. Steinberg's unwavering belief in prioritizing visual evidence over written narratives shaped his writings, often sparking provocative and debated discussions. Over time, his perspectives evolved through meticulous observation and analysis of his chosen objects of study. Nearly every piece he authored incorporated formal analysis, serving as a foundation for his interpretive narratives.

This remarkable volume, titled "Picasso," presents a collection of Steinberg's essays on the renowned artist Pablo Picasso. Many of these essays have been extensively researched and debated for decades, including the renowned "The Philosophical Brothel." Additionally, it includes unpublished lectures, such as "The Intelligence of Picasso," a comprehensive exploration of Picasso's lifelong pursuit to expand the boundaries of representation. Art historian Richard Shiff provides an insightful introduction that contextualizes these works and sheds light on Steinberg's unwavering dedication to refining the expository, interpretive, and rhetorical aspects of his writing.

The series, curated and edited by Steinberg's long-time associate Sheila Schwartz, showcases Steinberg's profound insights and intellectual prowess, making it an invaluable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone seeking to delve deeper into the world of art.

Dimension: 279 x 216 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226816593