The novel follows the life of Gulley Jimson, a boisterous, eccentric, and impoverished painter in London who is constantly in search of the perfect canvas to express his artistic vision. Despite his numerous struggles with society's norms, financial difficulties, and his own physical health, Jimson remains unflinchingly dedicated to his craft. His relentless pursuit of artistic truth and beauty, often at the expense of personal relationships and societal expectations, paints a vivid picture of the passionate, self-destructive artist archetype.

"The Story of Art" is a comprehensive guide to the history of art, covering a vast span of time from prehistoric art to contemporary movements. The book provides insights into the cultural, historical, and social contexts that have influenced the creation of art throughout various periods. It offers detailed analysis of major works and styles, and discusses the techniques used by artists from different eras. It is not only an exploration of the evolution of art but also an attempt to understand the motivations and inspirations of the artists behind the works.

This novel is a historical narrative set in post-World War II Japan, focusing on an aging painter who grapples with his past as a propagandist for the imperialist movement. As he navigates the rapidly changing cultural landscape, he faces criticism and ostracism for his role in promoting Japan's militaristic past. The story explores themes of guilt, regret, and the struggle for redemption, offering a nuanced examination of the personal and societal consequences of war.

"Art and Illusion" is a comprehensive study of the psychology of pictorial representation. The book explores how artists from the Renaissance to the present day have used illusions to enhance their work, and how our brains interpret these illusions. It delves into the science behind our perception of reality and how it influences art, providing a unique perspective on the intersection between psychology, philosophy, and aesthetics. The book also discusses the concept of 'schema' and 'correction' in an artist's work, and how the artist's perception of the world is constantly evolving.

This biography delves into the life of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Picasso. The book provides an in-depth look into his early life, his relationships, his artistic evolution, and his influence on the art world. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Picasso's personal and professional life, shedding light on his genius and the complexities of his character. The author's detailed research and intimate knowledge of the artist's life make this book a definitive biography of Picasso.

"The Apes of God" is a satirical novel that critiques the literary and artistic scene of 1920s London. The narrative follows a naive young man from the English countryside who becomes entangled in the pretentious and superficial world of London's modernist elite. The book is known for its biting wit, complex character portrayals, and intricate plot, providing a scathing critique of the cultural and intellectual pretensions of the time.

"Civilisation" is an in-depth exploration of Western art and culture from the Dark Ages to the twentieth century. The book provides a comprehensive examination of the major creative and intellectual movements in Western history, including the Reformation, the Renaissance, the Industrial Revolution, and the Romantic era. The author uses art, literature, music, and architecture as a lens to explore the broader social, political, and economic context of each period, offering a rich and nuanced portrait of Western civilisation.

This novel is a dual narrative that explores the interconnected stories of a 15th-century Italian Renaissance artist named Francesco del Cossa and a modern-day teenager named George. The book is divided into two parts, one set in the past and one in the present, and the order in which they are read can change the reader's interpretation of the story. The novel delves into themes of art, gender, sexuality, and the fluidity of identity, while also examining the ways in which we perceive and understand the world around us.

"Vermeer" is an in-depth study of the life and works of the renowned Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of Vermeer's artistic style, techniques, and the unique qualities that distinguish his work from other artists of his time. With a focus on individual paintings, it explores the subtleties and complexities of Vermeer's art, offering readers an intimate understanding of his mastery in capturing light, color, and human emotion.

This book is a family memoir that traces the journey of a collection of miniature Japanese sculptures, called netsuke, through generations of a wealthy Jewish family. The narrative delves into the family's rise to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, their survival during the Nazi regime, their post-war struggles, and their eventual decline. The author uses the netsuke as a lens to explore the themes of art, loss, and family legacy.

"The Nude: A Study in Ideal Form" is an exploration of the portrayal of the human body in art. The author analyzes the evolution of the nude form from ancient Greece to the modern era, discussing the cultural, philosophical, and aesthetic factors that have shaped its representation. The book examines the concept of 'ideal beauty', the symbolism of nudity, and the artistic techniques used to convey the human form, providing a comprehensive and insightful look into one of the most enduring themes in art history.

This book offers a unique perspective on world history, telling the story of humanity through the examination of 100 man-made objects. The author, a museum director, uses items from the British Museum, ranging from a 2 million-year-old Olduvai stone cutting tool to a contemporary credit card, to explore various themes such as trade, religion, art, science, and politics. The book provides a fascinating lens through which to view the evolution of human civilization.