The Greek Miracle - Classical Sculpture from the Dawn of Democracy, the Fifth Century B. C.

This book is an outstanding companion to a very important 1992-93 exhibit of fifth-century Greek sculpture showing at both the National Gallery of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. A well-developed commentary by guest curator Buitron-Oliver accompanies each reproduction, and the texts by a variety of scholars are extensive and well written. But it is the glorious illustrations that make this an important work. Of the 34 well-known works featured, 22 have never been displayed outside Greece. Most have been reproduced many times in earlier surveys, but never so clearly. Each object is reproduced in exceptionally clear, full-color photographs. Such multiple illustrations are an unfortunate rarity in books on sculpture but critical for truly examining a work meant to be seen from many angles. This catalog is useful for classical studies and smaller art collections and essential for all larger ones.