Dictionary of Women Artists: An International Dictionary of Women Artists Born Before 1900

by Chris Petteys

Summary

G K Hall [Published 1985]. Hard cover, 851 pp. [Excerpt from Preface]. The purpose of the dictionary is to provide essential biographical information about the thousands of women artists who played a part, however small, in women's art heritage. In pursuing that aim the work has been designed to assist a wide range of users. The biographical information addresses some of the basic needs of students, nonacademic researchers, and librarians handling quick reference questions. For art researchers and other scholars, the bibliography cited with each entry will facilitate more intensive investigations. The dictionary will also serve collectors, art and antique dealers, galleries, and museums as more works by women artists continue to be found. With the ongoing discovery of fine works of art by little-known women, of whom are not listed in earlier reference works, it is my hope that this dictionary will result in the discovery of further information about those artists' lives and careers. A gradual reassessment of such newly discovered artists and works will not only serve to increase our knowledge of women’s art history but may also reveal a new perspective in our understanding of the history of world art. This dictionary is international in scope. It includes more than 21 women painters, sculptors, printmakers, and illustrators born before1900.