Henri Cartier-Bresson - His Art - His Life

This book is not an art book in the usual sense; it is Montier's dissertation and for this reason alone it is more like a scientific treatise than a normal biography. Anyone who is put off by this should note that the text is demanding, but not incomprehensible or detached. On the contrary: the person, life and oeuvre of Cartier-Bresson are subjected to a meticulous analysis in which no stone is left unturned in the life of the great artist. Political, historical, cultural and social contexts are illustrated using Cartier-Bresson's pictures and the reader is presented with new, unexpected links to events in the 20th century.

Cartier-Bresson was and is an unconventional man. He traveled a lot - even before Magnum - and was a rebel as a young boy. This has not changed to this day. Known for his poetic, haunting photos, for which the term "photojournalism" is almost an insult, Cartier-Bresson also devoted himself to painting, drawing and film. All of his various art forms are taken into account in this excellent book.

299 images -- selected by Cartier-Bresson especially for this book --, a vast amount of text and Montier's attention to detail make this book a fascinating read that immerses the reader in the world of Cartier-Bresson. A world that is characterized by surrealism and poetry, by rebellion, curiosity and respect for people. --Sandra Neumaye