From Library Journal
In spite of its subtitle, this handsome, oversized book is not an exhibition catalog, but rather one of a series of "retrospectives" produced by the publisher-which includes studies on Monet, Matisse, and Gauguin. The volume anthologizes previously published writings by critics, colleagues, family, and the artists themselves. Chronicles of Chagall's personal and artistic development are supplemented with a bibliographical index (but no true bibliography) and ample, albeit murky, illustrations. Editor Baal-Teshuva, a critic, curator, and friend of Chagall's, provides in his introduction a framework for the book, which is organized thematically, geographically, and by the diverse media of Chagall's prodigious output. Franz Meyer's more exhaustive and scholarly monograph Marc Chagall (LJ 5/15/64. o.p.) and Susan Compton's Chagall (LJ 6/1/85. o.p.) which includes a bibliography and better quality reproductions, are recommended over this latest tome as single sources on the artist. For its amassing of writings from a wide variety of sources, however, this book would still be a valuable acquisition for any art library needing multiple sources.
Heidi Martin Winston, NYPLCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Synopsis
This comprehensive and incisive exploration brings together the writings of art critics, and reminiscences of family, friends, and colleagues and Chagall's own words to create a striking portrait of an artist who delighted the world with his unique brand of creativity.