Beautiful Things: Sales Catalogues and the Private Collection in Fin-de-Siècle France
France: Beautiful Things examines private art collections in fin-de-siècle Paris through sales catalogues and related photographs. Valerie Mendelson considers how collectors brought art from different periods into conversation, including contemporary works, and how this supported artists such as the Impressionists.
At a glance
- Studies private art collecting and lavish sales catalogues in fin-de-siècle Paris.
- Uses text and related photographs to explore collectors as participants in artistic culture.
- Discusses collections that juxtaposed different periods and included contemporary art.
Reference price: $119.00
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Connects art history with the visual and written culture of sales catalogues.
- The subject includes industrial, intellectual and theatrical collecting circles.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Brill |
|---|---|
| Publication date | August 6, 2026 |
| Edition details | Approx. 250 pp. with 70 ill. |
| Print length | 250 pages |
| Language | English |
| ISBN-10 | 9004745912 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-9004745919 |
| Weight listed | 1.17 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6.1 x 0.83 x 9.25 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of French art history and fin-de-siècle culture.
- Researchers interested in collecting, sales catalogues, art photography and Impressionism.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a general survey of French art rather than a focused study of private collections and catalogues.
Frequently asked questions
What subject does Beautiful Things cover?
It studies private art collections in fin-de-siècle Paris and the sales catalogues and photographs that represented them.
Does the book discuss Impressionism?
Yes. The listing says the collections’ comparative presentation of art helped validate and support artists such as the Impressionists.
How many pages and illustrations are listed?
The details list a 250-page print length and an edition of approximately 250 pages with 70 illustrations.
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