Illustrated throughout with original, evocative imagery as well as reproductions of art, these introductory biographies explore the works and lives of important artists and architects in detail, and trace the influence of their legacies on our world.

Alongside Picasso, Henri Matisse is the other great artist of the 20th century, producing masterpieces that reduced art to the most essential aspects of color, line, and form. Yet Matisse took pains to conceal the work that it took to produce his art: "I have always tried to hide my efforts and wished my works to have the light joyousness of springtime." Along with color reproductions, this book includes watercolor illustrations by Agnès Decourchelle in the mood of Matisse.