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John Rewald's Biography of Paul Cézanne Published in Italian

publication · 2026-04-27

The biography 'Paul Cézanne. Una vita' by John Rewald has been released in Italy through Donzelli Editore, with translation by Nicoletta Poo. This work delves into the life of Paul Cézanne, utilizing his letters, writings, photographs, and various accounts. Rewald, an expert on Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, brings attention to both lesser-known pieces like 'L'enlèvement' (1867) and celebrated works such as 'La Montagne Sainte-Victoire au grand pin' (1887). The book discusses Cézanne's friendship with Émile Zola, who initially championed him but later turned critical of the Impressionists, leading to their estrangement. It also touches on Cézanne's struggles with his father and his rejections by the Salon, as well as his 1872 relocation to Pontoise to study under Camille Pissarro, enhancing his artistic technique. Rewald’s storytelling engages the audience with the artist’s journey.

Key facts

  • John Rewald's biography 'Paul Cézanne. Una vita' published in Italy by Donzelli Editore.
  • Translated by Nicoletta Poo, 280 pages, €30, ISBN 9788868439842.
  • Rewald was a leading scholar of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.
  • The book covers Cézanne's friendship with Émile Zola, starting at Collège Bourbon in Aix-en-Provence.
  • Cézanne's conflict with his father over pursuing art versus law is detailed.
  • Cézanne moved to Pontoise in 1872 to live with Camille Pissarro for two years.
  • The biography recounts Cézanne's refusal to shake Manet's hand.
  • Zola's criticism of Impressionists ended his friendship with Cézanne.

Entities

Artists

  • Paul Cézanne
  • Émile Zola
  • Camille Pissarro
  • Édouard Manet
  • Henri Fantin-Latour
  • Edgar Degas
  • Claude Monet
  • John Rewald

Institutions

  • Donzelli Editore
  • Collège Bourbon
  • Salon
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • France
  • Paris
  • Pontoise
  • Italy
  • Roma

Sources