How to Paint Like the Old Masters

Rating:
Summary: A treat
Review: This book is a fabulous repertoire of demos of how the masters used to paint. It covers the techniques of Durer, Rubens, Rembrandt, Hals, Carvaggio, Titian, Vermeer in clear detailed step by step demos of one or two paintings covering each of the old masters. It shows concisely how the same effects can be achieved including painting techniques, supports, mediums and paints which are individualized for each of the old masters. The information and recipes with respect to supports and grounds, mediums and paint are mainly the same recipes followed by the old masters but a few recipes are based on modern ingredients which would give the same effects. The artistic skill of the painter is obvious and startling and the book is richly illustrated. This book is not for beginners nor an exhaustive discourse on the painting techniques of all old masters, but it is superb in its context and a great visual treat.

Rating:
Summary: Great book but not for begginers!
Review: This book is well written and easy to read. The techniques are not described as in-depth as I though they would be. But they are summerized concisely. The demonstrations are good if you have any notion of brushstroke, light etc. I would recommend this book.