Description

Secret Knowledge: Rediscovering the Lost Techniques of the Old Masters is a highly influential non-fiction art history and theory book by the famous artist David Hockney, first published in 2001. Hockney investigates the theory that artists like Ingres and Canaletto used optical tools (such as the camera obscura and camera lucida) to aid their realistic portrayals. This Illustrated hardcover is a vital, though controversial, contribution to Art History and Technique.

Synopsis

Title: Secret Knowledge Rediscovering Lost Techniques Of The Old Masters, David Hockey
Author/Publisher: David Hockney (Gardners Books)
Publication Year: 2001
Format: Illustrated Hardcover with Dust Jacket

David Hockney's groundbreaking 2001 work, Secret Knowledge: Rediscovering the Lost Techniques of the Old Masters, presents a captivating and controversial thesis that has profoundly reshaped our understanding of art history. A renowned artist himself, Hockney embarks on a meticulous visual investigation into the astonishing realism achieved by European Old Masters, from the early 15th century onwards.

This compelling non-fiction exploration posits that many of the hyper-realistic depictions found in works by artists such as Jan van Eyck, Canaletto, and Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres were not solely the product of unparalleled draughtsmanship. Instead, Hockney argues these masters likely employed optical aids, including camera obscuras and camera lucidas, to project and trace images, thereby achieving their astonishing precision and detail. This challenges long-held beliefs about artistic technique and skill.

• The Hockney–Falco Thesis: Delve into the core of Hockney's revolutionary argument, often referred to as the Hockney–Falco thesis, which suggests that optical devices were integral to the creation of many iconic artworks, sparking a significant debate among art historians and scientists.
• Visual Evidence and Analysis: The book meticulously presents a wealth of visual comparisons and detailed analyses of paintings and drawings, highlighting the optical distortions and perspectives that Hockney identifies as consistent with the use of lenses and mirrors.
• An Artist's Perspective: Uniquely, the inquiry is driven by the practical eye of a working artist. Hockney's own experience with drawing and painting informs his observations, offering insights into the technical challenges and solutions faced by the Old Masters.
• Richly Illustrated Content: As indicated by its features, the book is profusely illustrated throughout, offering readers direct visual evidence supporting Hockney's claims and allowing for a deeper appreciation of the artworks discussed within their historical context.

Secret Knowledge remains a pivotal and thought-provoking work, continuing to stimulate discussion and re-evaluation in the fields of art history and visual perception. Its significance as a major contribution by one of the 20th and 21st centuries' most influential artists makes this first edition an essential acquisition for collectors of art theory and historical studies.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Acceptable condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

Specifications

Shipping

• We ship every business day, on occasion we may post the same day but expect it to be shipped on the next business day with tracking.
• We offer Express Post & International Shipping.
• Where an item exceeds Australia Post weights or dimensions, we utilise a courier. In this case we are unable to ship to PO Boxes.
• Items are packed in padded bubble mailers, with exception of thin paperbacks or magazines or DVDs that are sent in cardboard envelopes.
• Large book sets are carefully packaged in boxes with packaging material to eliminate movement.

Return Policy

We are here to help! If you are unhappy with your purchase or you feel we've made a mistake, contact us and we are more than happy to assist to make your experience a positive one!

If we still can't solve the issue and you need to return your item, you can! Contact us within 30 days of the purchase for returns. Thereafter, we do not accept returns. Shipping costs are at the buyers expense.

Environmental Impact

We are one of the few sellers that package our items with not only great care but environmental impact consideration. We're committed to a carbon-neutral parcel delivery through Australia Post which provides positive environmental and social impacts.

We utilise the following packaging:

• Landfill-biodegradable bundling wrap to quickly secure and bundle items to avoid damage during transit. It can be recycled or disposed of in the general rubbish bin. Once disposed to landfill biodegradation is accelerated approximately 90+% faster than conventional bundling wrap, producing organic matter (a natural fertiliser) and no microplastics.
• Our plain padded bubble mailers are suitable for kerbside paper collection and recycling.
• All of our satchels are recyclable and made from 80% recycled content plastic.
• All of our envelopes can be recycled.