Eric Gill's Masterpieces of Wood Engraving

Eric Gill identified himself as a stone-carver. Even so, it makes a lot of sense that he's better known today for his typefaces (Gill sans, anyone?) and woodcuts. Those are inherently reproducible, unlike carved stone. This volume reproduces over 250 of those wonderful woodcuts.The subject matter ranges widely, from illuminated initial letters for books, to religious icons, to bookplates for friends and family, to gorgeous studies of female figures and amorous couples - and, in many cases images that combine genres in startling ways. (The range and combinations reflect the varied and mixed nature of his personal life, but that's  another story .)Throughout, Gill's visual style remains consistent. However his choices of media branched out, the clean and simple lines of a stone carver persisted. This combined delightfully with the flowing sensuality of Art Nouveau, a major movement contemporary with his early career. I think of the blending as sophisticated primitivism: elegant, animal, and spiritual at the same time.Although woodcuts represent only a small part of his work, that part is easy to approach and enjoy - especially in this economical and well-made Dover edition. Go ahead - enjoy!-- wiredweird

The lines of Eric Gill move so gracefully.

I was disappointed in the quality of the paper on which the woodcuts were printed...I feel Mr Gill deserved better... And the viewer deserved better.However, I do feel this is a criticism that can be levelled at other publishers too and has stopped me from purchasing the works of other woodcut artists. In particular Clare Leighton.It is a disappointment that with the benefits of modern printing technology publishers can't do better for the artist and buyer.Vincent Delaney

Super book very informative, well produced, extensive illustrations. Very useful for my art history studies and anyone interested in wood engraving. Eric Gill was a seriously flawed human being but his art work can be sublime, his simple line is sheer perfection.

Eric Gill's wood engravings are absolutely beautiful, and this book is full of them. Very inspiring. I love this book.

Gill was a master of his very particular style of engraving. Worthy reproductions and a sound commentary mark this text as being important for any with an interest in Arts and Crafts.

An impressive book. I was pleased to be able to locate a copy