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Philippe Costamagna's 'Histoires d'œils' Explores the Art of the Connoisseur

publication · 2026-04-24

Philippe Costamagna, a specialist in Italian Renaissance painting, has authored 'Histoires d'œils,' a book published by Grasset. The work delves into the profession of the 'œil' (eye), a term for art connoisseurs who authenticate and attribute artworks. Costamagna examines the daily practice of these experts, highlighting the unsuspected and fascinating conditions of their craft. The book was reviewed in artpress issue n°435, July-August 2016, page 87.

Key facts

  • Philippe Costamagna is the author of 'Histoires d'œils'
  • The book is published by Grasset
  • It focuses on the profession of art connoisseurship
  • Costamagna is a specialist in Italian Renaissance painting
  • The book was reviewed in artpress n°435, July-August 2016
  • The review appears on page 87

Entities

Artists

  • Philippe Costamagna

Institutions

  • Grasset
  • artpress

Sources