The Life and Writings of Henry Fuseli, Volume 3 (of 3)

"The Life and Writings of Henry Fuseli, Volume 3" by Henry Fuseli is a collection of art lectures and essays written in the early 19th century. This volume focuses on the history of painting and aesthetics, emphasizing critical evaluations of renowned artists and their works, particularly in relation to the Italian schools of art. It aims to provide insights into the evolution of artistic techniques and principles, discussing figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. The opening of this volume presents the eleventh lecture, where Fuseli critiques the prevailing methods of art history treatment, arguing that it often reduces complex individuals into mere biographical entries without acknowledging their contributions to the evolution of art. He focuses extensively on Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper," exploring its technical execution and expressive power. The lecture highlights the significance of original expression as essential to the advancement of art, contrasting it with the mediocrity of artists who failed to push beyond their influences. Through detailed examinations of artistic expression and form, Fuseli establishes a critical framework for understanding the development and current state of visual art.