Taschen Basic Art Series: Velazquez - Norbert Wolf

Velázquez by Norbert Wolf is a richly illustrated TASCHEN monograph dedicated to one of the most influential painters of the Spanish Golden Age, Diego Velázquez (1599–1660).

Renowned as a master of realism, light, and subtle emotion, Velázquez revolutionized portraiture and redefined how art could capture truth. From his early religious works to his famous royal portraits and mythological scenes, his paintings remain a cornerstone of Western art.

Norbert Wolf traces Velázquez’s artistic evolution — from his beginnings in Seville to his tenure as court painter to King Philip IV, and his lasting influence on later artists like Goya, Manet, and Picasso.

Through exquisite reproductions and expert analysis, this volume illuminates the painter’s technique, use of light, and psychological depth, offering readers both an art-historical perspective and a visual journey through his masterpieces, including Las Meninas, The Surrender of Breda, and The Rokeby Venus.

Main Themes of the Book

• The evolution of realism and Baroque aesthetics
• Royal portraiture and symbolism in art
• The influence of Velázquez on modern painters
• The role of light, shadow, and perspective
• Artistic genius within the context of Spanish history

Why you should read this book

• A comprehensive introduction to Velázquez’s life and legacy.
• Written by Norbert Wolf, a leading art historian known for his clear and insightful style.
• Published by TASCHEN, renowned for its high-quality art editions.
• Features full-color reproductions of Velázquez’s most celebrated works.
• Perfect for art lovers, students, and collectors of classical and Baroque art.

Velázquez by Norbert Wolf is more than an art book — it’s a gateway into the mind of a painter who transformed realism into poetry. Through Wolf’s elegant commentary and TASCHEN’s meticulous presentation, readers experience the brilliance, humanity, and enduring influence of one of history’s greatest masters.