This impressive collection of engravings illustrating the dramatic works of Shakespeare takes a new look at the long-neglected area of romantic early-19th-century art. A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Merry Wives of Windsor, The Tempest, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Measure for Measure, Macbeth, Julius Caesar, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, King Lear, and 23 other plays.
The curiosity to explore the lives of those who excel in the Fine Arts stems from two principles: our gratitude for their contributions to our enjoyment and our desire to understand how they achieved their greatness. There is often a connection between an artist's life and their work, where even minor incidents can illuminate their creations. The pleasure derived from painting arises not only from the accuracy of imitation but also from the nature of the subjects depicted. It is lamented that much art focuses on familiar objects that fail to engage our imagination, such as common animals or still life. We owe a greater debt to artists who present us with scenes that ignite our imagination, showcasing the actions of great individuals or transporting us to distant lands filled with beautiful natural elements. Among those deserving of our admiration is Claude Le Lorrain, who, through a long life dedicated to capturing nature's splendor, produced works that have rightfully secured his place at the forefront of painting history. His diligent efforts amidst enchanting landscapes have left a lasting impact on the art world.