Seeing Through Paintings: Physical Examination in Art Historical Studies

by Andrea Kirsch, Rustin S. Levenson

This prize-winning book offers the only comprehensive discussion available on materials, techniques, and condition issues in Western easel paintings from medieval times to the present. “An essential handbook for the pro, and also a beautifully illustrated primer for the layperson. Kirsh and Levenson teach the most valuable lessons about painting of all: how meanings, material, and techniques are bound up together.”—John Walsh, former director, J. Paul Getty Museum “Every element of Kirsh and Levenson’s book is smart, concise, and informative. . . . [It is] the essential book on its subject.”—Kenneth Baker, San Francisco Examiner & Chronicle “A long overdue book with direct relevance for modern students of the history of art.”—Libby Sheldon, Burlington Magazine

Genres: Art

312 pages, Paperback

First published April 10, 2000

Reviews

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really helpful book for art historians and interested lay people who want an understanding of how paintings age, and also how specialists examine them. The chapters are ordered by material, wood supports, canvas supports, grounds, oil and acrylic paint, varnish, and there is a balance between technical discussion and art history, describing what we can learn from difference scientific examination techniques.
Although technical in nature, it is written in a clear language, with plenty of illustrations. Seeing Through Paintings is insightful for anyone who has a even remote interest in paintings conservation.

[Stephanie Magnuson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book- such a fascinating tour of materials analysis from support the work is painted on up through the varnish layer. Specific case studies present useful anecdotes on various topics such as materials selection, artists’ methods changing over their career, issues with establishing/negating provenance, philosophies on restoration approaches, and overview of technologies available for both non-destructive and destructive analysis. If you are interested in the technical aspects of paintings, you will really like this book!