meissonier california impressionism

books:

3 reviews
Gore Vidal

Dutton, 1952

Vintage Vidal
In his memoirs, Gore Vidal calls this novel the beginning of his literary voice. It is a joy to read, and appears to have been a joy to write, for this youthful, vibrant, charismatic novel flows effortlessly through cities, affairs, and misadventures. Colorful characters abound -- early on there's an uproariously matter-of-fact description of our hero's casual fling with the wife of an American ...

The Judgment of Paris: Manet, Meissonier And the Birth of Impressionism

36 reviews
Ross King, 2008

one of the best books on 19th century French painting I have read
King uses the lives of two painters and a wonderfully detailed historical context to present the roots and further development of Impressionism. I hate to use the term for such a densely written book, but it is an easy read. In addition, it is a useful reference book. I have dipped back into it several times to refresh my understanding of certain artists.

Judgment of Paris: California vs. France and the Historic 1976 Paris Tasting That Revolutionized Wine

49 reviews
George M. Taber

Scribner, 2005

Best History of California Winemaking
I bought this book thinking is was all about the 1976 Tasting in Paris but it turns out that this book is really the history of California Winemaking and all of the characters that have put California Wines where they are today. For the lover of California wines, this is a must read. Once you start reading, you can't put it down.