Yet another glorious work from a bygone age. This three-volume series only contains in total 100 paintings with short descriptions, but there is something about the dedication and intent behind T. Leman Hare's 1930s collection that is truly admirable.

The paintings are placed on colour plates which are attached to the book, rather than being simply printed copies. As a result, they have impeccable quality (even if some are probably a bit too small). The descriptions are quite short, just covering the basic description and artist background, as well as details of why the painting is well-known. Leman Hare explains in his introduction that there is no intent to actually choose the "greatest" paintings, or to even represent all artists or styles. Instead, he simply hopes to "gladden" the homes of interested readers, allowing them to enjoy these artworks in their own homes.

The internet - and our jetsetting society - have robbed us of the ability to appreciate dense tomes on the great artists, interests, and the like. Why fill your library with multi-volume encyclopaedias and detailed volumes that examine a variety of operas, sports, historical moments, etc, when you can simply check out Wikipedia, or a concise "Idiot's Guide to..." from Borders. I see the merit in those, I really do. But the kind of home library that Leman Hare and his ilk were advocating still should have some relevance! The sheer joy of owning these volumes is proof enough. ( )