IMPRESSIONISM

In the ``Eyewitness Art'' series, a beautifully illustrated survey organized (in their usual fashion) into topical spreads with introductory paragraphs plus a multiplicity of illustrative material—reproductions of art and photos (including many of items represented in the art), with lengthy, informative, fine- print captions. The effect is curiously like Impressionism itself: the dabs of information aren't intended to be exhaustive but are exquisitely chosen, arranged, and contrasted to give the essence of these pivotal ideas and images and their creators. In the process, Weston outlines Impressionism's antecedents, rise, and effect; introduces major figures and their subjects (``CafÇ life''; ``Degas' dancers''); explores related topics (``The Impressionist palette''; patrons); and specifically details many techniques and effects, especially of brushwork and composition. Though it demands an intelligent and sophisticated reader, the style is admirably lucid; the book should be invaluable to young artists who are seriously interested in art history. Key dates; artists shown at the Impressionist exhibitions of 1874-86; brief glossary; index. (Nonfiction. YA+)