National Gallery of Art: Washington
The list of master artists whose work is housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC, seems endless. This massive volume contains rich color reproductions of works by Pollock, Brancusi, Cezanne, Picasso, and hundreds of other artists. The arrangement of the paintings and sculptures shows a strong curatorial hand, for often the works of two or more artists are mingled to illustrate the impact of one artist on another. To enhance the experience of leafing through this book, John Walker, director emeritus of the museum, places the artists and their work in historical, artistic, and social context with concise, revealing essays. Walker also discusses the inception and evolution of the gallery as well as the collecting habits and tastes of its major benefactors, people such as Andrew Mellon and Chester Dale. This book is an excellent companion to the museum and an wonderful addition to any art lover's collection.