De Lempicka (Taschen Basic art Series) - Gilles Néret

An Icon of Art Deco and Modern Glamour

De Lempicka by Gilles Néret, part of the Taschen Basic Art Series, offers a concise yet visually rich introduction to one of the most recognizable painters of the 20th century. Tamara de Lempicka (1898–1980) embodied the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, merging high society, modernity, and artistic ambition into a striking and unforgettable body of work.

From Exile to Artistic Stardom

After fleeing St. Petersburg following the Bolshevik Revolution, de Lempicka reinvented herself in Paris, quickly becoming a sought-after portraitist among aristocrats, celebrities, and cultural elites. Her work stands as one of the most compelling visual records of interwar Europe and the Art Deco movement.

A Distinctive Visual Language

De Lempicka’s paintings are defined by cool color palettes, sculptural forms, and a blend of post-cubist geometry with neoclassical elegance. Her figures are sensual, confident, and self-possessed, often depicted as nude or semi-nude, bathed in dramatic light and commanding attention while remaining emotionally distant.

Women, Power, and Identity

This book highlights de Lempicka’s progressive portrayals of emancipated and lesbian women, as well as her iconic Self-Portrait in the Green Bugatti, a symbol of speed, independence, and modern femininity. Her art challenges traditional gender roles and celebrates female autonomy in a rapidly changing world.

Main Themes of the Book

• Art Deco painting and interwar modernism
• Female identity, independence, and power
• Glamour, luxury, and high-society portraiture
• Post-cubism and neoclassical form
• The role of women artists in 20th-century art

Reasons to Choose This book by Gilles Néret

• Part of the acclaimed Taschen Basic Art Series
• Written by renowned art historian Gilles Néret
• High-quality reproductions of key artworks
• Clear, accessible text ideal for students and art lovers
• Essential introduction to Art Deco and female artists

De Lempicka is an indispensable guide to an artist whose work defines the visual identity of the 1920s and 1930s. This Taschen edition captures the elegance, boldness, and cultural significance of Tamara de Lempicka’s art, making it an excellent choice for readers interested in Art Deco, modern portraiture, and the history of influential women artists.