Savage Messiah

by H.S. Ede

The outstanding biography of the great sculptor Henri Gaudier Brzeska, and his muse Sophie Brzeska. Illustrated with photographs of sculptures and line drawings.

Genres: Art, Biography, Nonfiction, World War I

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1931

Reviews

[Kurt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strangely written, yet thought provoking biography of a tragic artist and his older, and seemingly difficult love and muse, Sophia Brezska. The author, wisely, tells much of the story by reproducing many of Henri's letters to Sophia, written while they are apart. Henri explores and expounds on his continually morphing artistic ideas and thoughts. There's a lot to mull over, and it seems unusual that such a young person would have such strong, deep thoughts and feelings about art theory and yet be so articulate, not that I agree with all of them.

[Nancy Waggoner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story of a unique artist.

[Juan A. Ramirez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a striking, curious writing style, whenever it's Ede's own recounting and not Gaudier's letters he quotes extensively. I can't, in good conscience, advise skipping over them – they're often thrilling; also ultimately like 40% of the book... – but I did start to gloss over them after a while. Could've used an edit! Everyone should watch the movie. Anyway, this edition is maybe the most gorgeous thing I own? Early example of a thoughtfully designed art book? WATCH THE MOVIE.

[Nama'Dejigas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hmmm...