Paul Gsell Book order

A beautiful centenary facsimile of a rare early book on the father of modern sculpture. This centenary facsimile edition faithfully reproduces a 1918 volume published immediately in the wake of the death of Auguste Rodin (1840-1917), one of the first volumes on the French sculptor in the English language. With an essay by young American artist and critic Louis Weinberg, it presents almost 70 of Rodin's works in a beautifully designed, high-quality clothbound format that will appeal to a contemporary audience. In a career that spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rodin rebelled against the idealized forms and practices of traditional art and paved the way for the birth of modern sculpture. The hallmarks of his style--its highly eroticized, sometimes explicit character, his use of incomplete figures, his emphasis on formal qualities rather than on narrative, and his desire to retain the marks of the sculptural process--were considered revolutionary at the time. As a result, his intense, evocative works courted controversy after controversy, inspiring violent hatred and ardent admiration in equal measure. By the end of his life, however, his reputation was established and he had become one of the most celebrated and sought-after artists in the world. This book is a perfect gift, collectible and keepsake for any Rodin enthusiast or lover of modern sculpture.

The narrative follows Jean Pilgrim, who creates unique spectacles that reveal the thoughts of others. Initially a light-hearted satire reminiscent of Voltaire, it evolves into a critical examination of the hypocrisies within art and science. As the story unfolds, it shifts to a darker tone, offering harsh critiques of contemporary science, politics, and ultimately, the grim realities of modern warfare, showcasing a profound transformation in both theme and mood.

The narrative revolves around an inventive genius who creates a vehicle that can transport passengers across the universe. It explores the profound physical and psychological impacts of traveling at and beyond the speed of light, delving into the implications of such extraordinary journeys. The book combines elements of science fiction with philosophical inquiries, making it a thought-provoking read about the boundaries of human experience and technology.