The Art of the Lord of the Rings

The Art of The Lord of the Rings is a lavish full-color art book that contains nearly 200 sketches, drawings, paintings, and maps created by J.R.R. Tolkien for The Lord of the Rings. It includes pictorial sketches, maps, inscriptions, and 'facsimile leaves from the burned and blood-stained Book of Mazarbul' to support Tolkien's claim to be an 'editor or translator of ancient records.' The book has been edited by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull, two of the world's leading Tolkien scholars, and includes over 180 images printed in color from high-quality scans and photographs. Readers who have enjoyed The Art of The Hobbit will find much of interest in The Art of The Lord of the Rings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 11 May 2023
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

The Art of The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien is a lavish full-color art book that presents the complete collection of nearly 200 sketches, drawings, paintings, and maps created by the legendary author for his iconic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. As Tolkien wrote The Lord of the Rings, his vivid mental images often found expression in the form of drawings. These drawings ranged from rough sketches made within the manuscript to more polished illustrations. While only a few of these were intended for publication, the majority served as invaluable aids to help Tolkien conceive his intricate story and maintain its coherence. Many of these drawings do not directly depict the final text but rather capture moments of creation, shedding light on Tolkien's creative process and design. In addition to visual sketches, numerous maps accompany the development of the Shire and the expansive landscape of Middle-earth. These maps are accompanied by inscriptions in runes and Elvish script, as well as "facsimile leaves from the burned and blood-stained Book of Mazarbul," further enhancing Tolkien's portrayal as an "editor or translator of ancient records."

The Art of The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien brings together these drawings, inscriptions, maps, and plans in a single volume. More than 180 images are included, all reproduced in stunning color using high-quality scans and photographs. The book has been meticulously edited by Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull, two of the world's foremost Tolkien scholars, who provide an expert introduction and insightful comments. Readers who have enjoyed The Art of The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, with which this book shares a uniform format, will undoubtedly find much to appreciate in The Art of The Lord of the Rings as well.

In conclusion, The Art of The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien is a remarkable testament to the author's artistic vision and the depth of his creative genius. This exquisite art book offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Middle-earth, providing a deeper understanding of Tolkien's storytelling and the rich tapestry of his imagination. Whether you are a fan of The Lord of the Rings or an art enthusiast in general, this book is a must-have for anyone seeking to explore the artistic legacy of one of the greatest writers of all time.

Weight: 1368g
Dimension: 261 x 264 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008601416