The Laws of Fesole

With the aging of Postmodernism, artists and academics are reappraising the aesthetics of Modernism. In this timeless classic, Ruskin offers criticism, appreciation, and instruction for artists at the very beginnings of the Modern movement.


"As vital and relevant today as it was over a hundred years ago. This timeless classic, now back in print, will introduce a whole new generation of readers and art lovers to the analytic genius of John Ruskin."—The Bookwatch, October, 1996


"As we read Ruskin's art criticism we find revealing and stimulating insights into the early beginnings of the Modern movement....As we read Beckley's annotations we can revisit 19th-century art criticism with greater detachment."—Arts & Activities, March, 1998


"Ruskin's strength lies in his ability to absolutely commit to a concept, and translate that commitment into the written word. This attention to the craft of writing makes it possible for Ruskin to propound several divergent themes in one text and allow for the inconsistencies (because the structure is consistent and can contain the thoughts) inevitable in such a breadth of inquiry....it is his poetic evocation of self-purpose and his refusal to apologize for deeply held beliefs that make his writing so enriching... ."—New Art Examiner, March, 1997


"This isn't a discourse on how to paint or a treatise on art history, but a critical examination of painting at the beginnings of the Modern movement. This approach provides artists and students with guidelines for assessing work of the period, and this edition includes over forty black-and-white illustrative examples and a new introduction by artist Bill Beckley. An excellent examination of forms, sense, and artistic license."—The Midwest Book Review