NadarJames H Rubin

Nadar (Gaspard-Félix Tournachon, 1820-1910) was the most influential photographer of his generation, often cited as the first to raise the medium of photography to the level of art. He is perhaps most famous for his series of outstanding portraits made between the mid 1850s and the 1870s, in which he created a lasting and affecting image of the French cultural élite. His concentration on faces and his romantic glorification of the individual were crucial elements in his highly successful style.

Photography is the visual medium of the modern world. It pervades our lives and shapes our perceptions. 55 is a new and ongoing series of beautifully produced, pocket-sized books that explore all aspects and styles of photography. They celebrate the world's most important photographers from the spheres of art, photojournalism, science, street photography, fashion photography and travel photography.

Each volume of 128 pages focuses on an individual master's life work and its development. It features 55 of their key works presented chronologically with an accessible introduction and critical commentaries, telling both the photographer's story and the story of the world that shaped their views.

At specially low prices, 55 paperbacks offer an irresistible look at modern life from some of the greatest ever photographers.

Specifications:

  • Format: Paperback
  • Size: 156 × 136 mm (6 1/8 × 5 3/8 in)
  • Pages: 128 pp
  • Illustrations: 55 illustrations
  • ISBN: 9780714840598

James H Rubin teaches History of Art at the State University of New York, and at the Cooper Union in New York City. He is well known for his work on nineteenth-century French art. His books include Courbet and Impressionism in the Phaidon Art and Ideas series, and Manet's Silence and the Poetics of Bouquets.

'Elegantly designed, beautifully printed ... and sensitively laid out ... the choice of images is irreproachable ... Even if the series were to stop dead right now, it would already merit an honourable mention in publishing history ... the temptation to keep on collecting the whole set will no doubt afflict many.' (Independent)

'Phaidon 55s are handsome, pocket-sized editions with - you guessed it - 55 key works of one of the 20th century's iconic photographers. And because they cost just £4.95, the idea is you can take them - and even leave them - anywhere: on the table in the coffee shop, or poking suggestively out of your corduroy jacket pocket.' (Financial Times)

'The books are aimed beyond the 'photography buff' to a wider audience. Photography fans won't be disappointed, though: each book contains 55 images, so there's space to include lesser-known gems among the classic.' (Independent on Sunday)