[Book Description]
Alphonse Mucha is a definitive and richly illustrated monograph that offers a comprehensive retrospective of the celebrated Art Nouveau master, now available in a newly revised edition. Featuring nearly 500 stunning color illustrations and insightful essays, this volume traces Mucha’s artistic journey across multiple disciplines—from illustration and decorative arts to photography and the historical painting that became his life’s true passion.
Mucha rose to international fame with his legendary poster of actress Sarah Bernhardt, a defining image of the Art Nouveau movement. His work—characterized by graceful women, flowing lines, and botanical motifs—established one of the most recognizable visual languages in late 19th- and early 20th-century Europe. Beyond posters, he was also active in jewelry, furniture, and architectural design, seamlessly merging art and craftsmanship.
At the height of his success, however, Mucha chose to distance himself from the decorative art style that brought him fame. He redirected his focus to historical painting, pouring years of dedication into The Slav Epic—a monumental series of twenty large-scale canvases chronicling the myths and history of the Slavic people. This work reflected his profound cultural identity and spiritual ideals.
This book showcases the full range of Mucha’s creativity, including his most iconic posters and jewelry designs, his architectural contributions such as the Bosnia and Herzegovina Pavilion for the 1900 Paris World’s Fair, and lesser-known works like his pastels, murals, and photography. It offers readers a deep and multidimensional portrait of the artist, revealing the evolution of his aesthetic and his unwavering pursuit of meaning through art.
Alphonse Mucha is more than just an art book—it is a vital resource for understanding the life, legacy, and philosophy of one of the most influential artists of his time. Whether you're an Art Nouveau enthusiast, design professional, art historian, or admirer of Mucha’s timeless beauty, this volume will inspire and inform, offering a lavish tribute to a master of visual storytelling.
[Publication Details]
Authors: Agnes Husslein-Arco (Author, Editor), Jean-Louis Gaillemin (Editor), Michel Hilaire (Editor)
Publisher: Prestel
Publication Year: 2014
Size: 32 × 25 cm
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 356 pages