French Paintings From 1500 To 1800

"The period of French art covered in this book is. . . extraordinarily diverse. . . This volume provides an ideal introduction to the paintings of this rich and complex period, and will be useful both as a guide in the Gallery and, given the excellence of the plates, as a work of reference away from it. In either case, Michael Wilson's lucid and stimulating commentary on the paintings will greatly help the reader in coming to know them." -- Page 9, 10.

The outstanding collection of French old master drawings held in Washington's National Gallery of Art, represents in remarkable richness and breadth the history of French draftsmanship before 1800. Showcasing for the first time the heart of this outstanding body of work, Renaissance to Revolution celebrates the singular originality, elegance and spirit of French draftsmanship.