Art Masterpieces of the Louvre (Used Hardcover) - Ted and Gibbon Smart

The majestic building of the Prado, one of the finest examples of Spanish neo-classical architecture, stands in the south-eastern part of Madrid. It provides a fitting showcase for one of the finest art collections in the world.The basis of the collections it contains was originally the property of, or was collected by, various Spanish monarchs and, not surprisingly, the Spanish school is the best represented of any gallery.Originally intended as a Natural History Museum, the building was begun by order of Charles III, in 1787. It was not until after the War of Independence that it was decided to adapt the building to house various collections of paintings that had been dispersed during the hostilities.In addition to the comprehensive exhibits by such Spanish masters as Velásquez, Goya, Murillo, El Greco, Ribalta, Morales and Ribera, the gallery also contains a wealth of works by other European artists.The Prado is particularly well organised in the facilities it provides for studying the paintings as well as for lectures and special exhibitions.Within this book is contained a representative selection of the extensive store of treasures in the Prado, from which the vast scope of its collection will be readily apparent. Each illustration has been reproduced with the utmost care, in order to show, as nearly as possible, the full beauty of the original and this, together with the informative text, will surely make the book one to be enjoyed by everyone interested in fine galleries of art.

1201AE