ART-BOOKS.
Titian, By G. Gronau. (Duckworth and Co. 7s. 6d. net.)—This is an English translation of the German original, which appeared four years ago. The author in his preface tells us of his great indebtedness to Crowe and Cavalcaselle, but insists that his work is much more than the mere condensation of which he has been accused. The book gives a very interesting chronicle of Titian's life. The events of the artist's career were not of themselves other than those of a hard-working painter. But Titian worked for great patrons such as Charles V. and Philip II., as well as for Popes and Italian Dukes. Thus the Life has a wider interest than is usual with Renaissance painters. The author has a happy way of quoting contemporary documents, and not merely noting their existence. Thus the people we read of become living and' able to be realised. Priscianese in his grammar gives a letter in which he describes a supper-party in the garden of Titian's house. The entertainment was splendid, and the discourse turned on the praise of the Latin language. Aretino "became exceedingly angry He called for paper and ink, although he had already expressed himself strongly in words. After this the supper came most gaily to an end." We cannot help wonder- ing if Titian took part in the argument; or was he devising some new and subtle colour harmony while his guests disputed ? Dr.. Gronau writes with love and sympathy for the art of the great Venetian, and his criticisms are well balanced and to the point. • The book quite fulfils the aim of the author as set out in the ' preface; he addresses those in whom the impression made by the master has "awakened the desire to learn something about the production of his works and the life and personality of the artist."
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