This book re-examines the work of John Piper who, as well as being a prominent painter, printmaker, and photographer, was an active figure in many cultural spheres during the 1940s when the foundations of his reputation were laid. It brings together work that was officially commissioned during the Second World War and contextualizes it with work from the pre-war and post-war years. All aspects of Piper's work during the forties are examined.
Absolutely splendid book ... an homage to John Piper, selected as an official war artist during World War II and given the assignment of bombed out buildings ... his images of Coventry Cathedral are haunting ... his neo-romantic, architectonic paintings are lush and singular ... the introductory essays are illuminating, and the color plates are spectacular ...