William Merritt Chase: A Genteel Bohemian

by Keith L. Bryant Jr.

1991 University of Missouri Press hardcover, Keith L. Bryant (A history of American business). This handsome and interesting book, perfect for the browsing shelf, examines the life of a man instrumental in fostering the growth and appreciation of art in turn-of-the-century America. Bryant has a journalist's gift for patter, and as a historian--not an art historian--he is better at presenting American culture generally than art itself. But Bryant has patiently sifted through masses of first-hand sources to write this account. Chase is sympathetically characterized as a glittering personality, rather resembling his own vivid, slashing, eclectic painting style. The book stresses Chase's role as a teacher and promoter of art (Hopper, O'Keeffe, and Joseph Stella numbered among his pupils) and as a devoted husband and father. Recommended mainly for general readers. - Mary Hamel-Schwulst, Towson State Univ., Md.

344 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1991