Animals Observed: A Look at Animals in Art

More a work of natural history than of standard art appreciation, MacClintock's modern bestiary nevertheless offers exemplary reproductions of 80 works of painting, sculpture and drawing by nearly 60 artists, from an anonymous cave painter to Henry Moore. Although artists such as Rembrandt and Degas are included, the majority are anonymous ancients, contemporary ethnics or so-called ``animal artists'' whose work glows with empathy for their subjects. A naturalist herself, the author describes with gentle reverence the characteristics and habits of okapis and aardwolves as well as giraffes and bears; her poignant tales of beloved pets and animals plucked from their native habitats for distant zoos draw the reader in and attest to the dignity of animals. If the art historical comments are less successful, the images themselves are always lively and persuasive. Finally, photographs of artists alongside their amused models express a delight in the natural world that goes beyond words. All ages. (Mar.)