The Brilliant History of Color in Art

I've become addicted to books written by Victoria Finlay. She writes in such a lyrical way about color that it honestly makes you "see" the world differently. Today, color blazes out everywhere in screamingly brilliant shades. But long ago, the quest for color was difficult and in many cases dangerous. For instance, reading and learning about the process of Indigo is stunning and horrific- a shade of blue that is so taken for granted. I can't stress enough how interesting and fascinating this topic is and how well written Ms. Finlay's books are. Well worth the read!

I have read some unflattering reviews of this book by Victoria Finlay but was undeterred after reading her great book "Colour: A Natural History of the Palette". "The Brilliant History of Color" is more of a complement to Ms Finlay's other book. It tells her researched interesting history in short stories that she had uncovered in her travels. Not nearly as detailed as "Colour", it has something the other did not. It is richly illustrated with paintings and photographs that help tell a visual story of the origins of dyes and pigments used by artist and artisans throughout human history. Together these books are very educational, and in some ways, exciting. I read every night, usually a novel or mystery and save my educational reading for daytime. With Ms Finlay's books I have a great read for my brain to digest as I sleep. I have given copies of paperback versions of "Colour" to artist friends but will be keeping this hardcover illustrated book in my studio for inspiration. I will be advising my art groups to acquire a copy of both books in their libraries though.

Very informative in colors & their origination.

This is eye candy and an education all at the same time. The book is gorgeous, and the prose is succinct with never a dull moment: in addition to the main text, fact boxes at the side give interesting details about etymology, origins, and fun trivia, such as the colour George Washington wanted for his dining room wallpaper. It's a book to savour at leisure, and I highly recommend it to anyone fascinated by colour through the ages in fashion and art.

This is a great book to own and enjoy. It’s one of those books that is delightful to hold in your hands and enjoy with your eyes. The colors are amazing. And the explanation of how these colors came about is fascinating. I will never part with this book because it is one that I will look at again and again.

This book would make a nice gift for someone who is interested in color or for basic introduction. I expected more information and found myself disappointed with the book. The design is colorful and more set up for a coffee table book and a quick read. The art chosen is beautiful but it just isn't was I was after. It will be placed in a guest room. I think my guest would find a few facts interesting and enjoy the art.

I didn't realize this was going to be a history book, literally! It's an interesting read, as it gives so much information about pigment and origination of each color. For example, I loved a story about a painting that was being sold as an old masterwork (1400's), but the forensics done on the paint pigment uncovered that the particular pigment wasn't even in existence during the time in which they were claiming the painting was done!

Love It! Finlay condenses a lot of fascinating information in each 2 or 3 page chapter on a specific color - covering how it might have been discovered, the history of its use by artists, its commercial importance or impact on history. Lots of anecdotes and intriguing details that provide a whole new perspective on paints, pigments and art history. It can be read in small doses and is great for starting discussions with kids and grandkids.