If the Paintings Could Talk (National Gallery of London

by Michael Wilson, Andrew Marr (Foreword)

If the Paintings Could Talk reveals the hidden histories of paintings in the National Gallery, London. With a treasury of fascinating facts, discoveries, and tales, this book describes the flight a work took down a mountainside and the portrait that appeared in a James Bond film, among many other entertaining events and stories. An engaging, accessible, and highly original gallery guide that cross-references entries throughout, the book provides a unique tour of this remarkable collection.

Published by National Gallery Company/Distributed by Yale University Press

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, History

176 pages, Paperback

First published December 30, 2008

Reviews

[Sky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful little companion for the next time one visits the National Gallery of London.
Mr Wilson knows exactly what kind of a detail will make us stop in front of a painting and make it memorable. Don't let the shortness of the texts that accompany his choice of paintings fool you - they reveal deep knowledge about the works, painters, history, restoration, acquisition by the gallery, little anecdotes. And by introducing the paintings from different epochs, he makes us curious, urging us to go and find out more. His style is entertaining, informative and approachable - great for the general reader.
Can't wait to get to London and look at the paintings with a new appreciation and hunt for Turner's little hare among many more astonishing details.

[Georgina Heatley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting book! I read this for work and will look into how it can inspire me. Highly recommend!!

[Kyra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hahaaa ik wist dat er frans hals op de cover stond

[Lou-ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Made me want to fly to London on the spot