The Blind Spot – An Essay on the Relations Between Painting and Sculpture in the Modern Age

Starting in the seventeenth century, European writers and artists engaged in a lengthy debate over painting versus sculpture, exploring themes of perception and influence from scientific advancements in sight and touch. The Blind Spot delves into these discussions.

The Blind Spot – An Essay on the Relations Between Painting and Sculpture in the Modern Age explores a significant debate that emerged in Europe during the seventeenth century, involving some of the most renowned writers and artists of the time. This discourse revolved around various artistic priorities, including the value of painting versus sculpture, the significance of touch versus sight, and the tension between color and design, as well as ancient versus modern influences. The book invites readers to engage with these complex discussions that occupied European intellectuals for over three centuries.

The author delves into the historical context of these artistic quarrels, highlighting how they were influenced by contemporary scientific advancements related to the senses of sight and touch. By examining the works of influential figures such as René Descartes, Roger de Piles, Denis Diderot, Charles Baudelaire, and Émile Zola, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the key terms and arguments that defined this debate. Each of these thinkers contributed to shaping the discourse, reflecting the evolving perspectives on the nature of art and its relationship to human perception.

Through its detailed analysis, The Blind Spot not only sheds light on the contentious exchanges between painting and sculpture but also invites readers to consider the broader implications of these artistic discussions. By connecting art with the scientific exploration of the senses, the book enriches our understanding of how these two domains intersected, ultimately influencing the trajectory of modern art.