Garden of Earthly Delights
by Hans Belting

Few paintings inspire the kind of intense study and speculation as Hieronymous Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights, the Dutch master’s luminous triptych. Now renowned art historian Hans Belting offers a radical new interpretation of this masterpiece—one that places Bosch’s vision squarely in the context of his times.

 

Hieronymus Bosch’s elaborate paintings have always been hugely popular as well as controversial, but of all Bosch’s works, Garden of Earthly Delights, located in the Prado Museum in Madrid, has provoked the most debate. Commissioned by a wealthy Dutch noble, the painting has been interpreted as a heretical masterpiece, a condemnation of Catholicism, an opulent illustration of the Creation, and a premonition of the end of the world. Published by Prestel in its series of books in miniature format, this attractive, affordable, and adorable book makes a perfect gift. Packed with color, yet small enough to fit into a pocket, it is as inviting to the eye as it is to the wallet. Like all of Prestel's products, this "Mini" features amazing artwork, elegantly designed and packaged. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, these miniature treasures prove that little things mean a lot.