Hans Memling: The Complete Works 1st Edition

This is the massive, fully illustrated catalogue raisonné of the work of prolific fifteenth century Flemish master painter Hans Memling, with a bibliography and exhibition history of the works. The book was published in 1994, however, and wish it would be updated so the works are reproduced in color which this current edition does not. Of the 500 illustrations, 200 or 40% are unfortunately in black and white.

$399 for a book. But what a book! Check the price of the companion Rogier Complete Works. Over $2000. If you had to choose one of the two, even as an amateur I would get this one while it is still available. If one loves the work of these men one must have this book, the best of any on this subject I have seen. Perhaps a sapphire to the diamond and ruby of Johannes and Rogier, Memling deserves more recognition. Perhaps this work will better help demonstrate his refinement and elegance. Consider the Martin van Nieuwhoven diptych, just one of his unparalleled masterpieces.Almost 8 pounds, on a luscious paper, this book is magnificently illustrated and printed, and beautifully written/translated. deVos is again amazing, as scholar and writer. He begins by traveling to Selingenstadt, compares the scenery and architecture of M's presumed birthplace to the backgrounds painted, and despite the paucity of data about M, gives a good impression of M's life, his special relationship to St John's Hospital, Brugge,as well as deVos's usual high level of commentary about the individual works. Strongly recommended.

This IS a wonderful book with marvellous prints of the work of Hans Memling. There are a lot of detail prints that open a sight to history of daily life / costume etc.