Max Ernst : A Retrospective

Library Journal

This is the catalog of a centennial retrospective of Ernst's work held at London's Tate Gallery and in Germany. Spies, the leading Ernst scholar, delivers a dense but accessible introduction to the artist's ideas and work, followed by 250 very good color plates, Ernst's own extensive biographical notes, and specialized essays by four other authors on particular aspects of Ernst's oeuvre. An excellent introduction to this complex and difficult genius of Dada and Surrealism, this book covers all periods of Ernst's rich history in detail. Key works not included in the exhibit are included in the plates, making this a more thorough survey than most exhibition catalogs (though Spies's complete catalog has already reached seven volumes). Highly recommended for all art collections.-- Jack Perry Brown, Ryerson & Burnham Libs., Art Inst . of Chicago

Library Journal

Distinguished scholar Spies, previously of the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, and Rewald, curator at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art (MMA), here present an exhibition catalog for the recent Max Ernst retrospective at the MMA. From wartime to Dada to Surrealism and beyond, the editors attentively explore the artist and his work, giving a detailed overview of the artistic zeitgeist of Ernst's time. A robust introduction and thorough first essay skillfully lay the groundwork for chapters exploring Ernst's philosophy, forays into politics, concentration camp experience, use of and relation to the Old Masters, and time in America. Surrealist artists fought using pictures, the authors note, and Ernst in particular wanted to "turn the world upside down, as the catastrophe of war had turned theirs around." Although he lacked formal training, his ability to address current events in an elegant, streamlined fashion marked Ernst as "an artist in a world of constant change." His relationship with the influence of artistic masterworks is both sensitive and transformative. Recommended for libraries specializing in art, art history, and German studies.-Nadine Dalton Speidel, Cuyahoga Cty. P.L., Parma, OH Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.