LOOKING AT SCULPTURE

by Roberta M. Paine ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 14, 1968

What do a dime, the Winged Victory and a Mercedes radiator emblem have in common? All are arrangements of shapes in space--and all figure in this sensitively conceived, sensibly executed orientation to sculpture. In the manner of the exhibition she arranged for children at the Metropolitan Museum (where she also lectured), Miss Paine illustrates the potential of sculpture via five representations of horses and a text that challenges the viewer to compare them, then does the same with heads and faces. The bulk of the book explores sculpture in the round (in stone, wood, clay, bronze; also constructions of metal, plastic, etc.) and sculpture in relief. Each mode and medium is effectively characterized; techniques and processes are clearly and succinctly explained; the sculptural examples range across cultures and centuries, demonstrate what they should, comprise good art that is accessible to children (handsome and immediate rather than whimsical or precious). The addenda is outstanding also; a map locating sites (of museums, of monuments) mentioned in the text; brief notes on the sculptors, indicating the significance of each; an extensive glossary, illustrated where relevant; a short annotated bibliography; an index of sculptures. Altogether more imaginative and less pedantic than Moore's The Sculptured Image (1967, 1213, J-433), also more selective; simply a splendid book that will satisfy scholars and wouldn't bore adults.

Pub Date: Oct. 14, 1968

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1968

Categories: NONFICTION