Constantin Brancusi (1876–1957), one of the most influential artists of the 20th century and a pioneer of modernism, is also referred to as the patriarch of modern sculpture. From A as in Africa to S as in Studio, D as in Dance, F as in Furniture, or R for Reflections, this lavishly illustrated volume takes the open form of a dictionary to present Brancusi’s celebrated art in its full richness. More than 110 entries contributed by leading Brancusi specialists form a complete panorama of his career, from his native Romania to Paris, where he established himself in 1903, and to the United States, where his work was on display for the first time at New York’s legendary 1913 Armory Show.

Published in conjunction with a major exhibition at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the book sheds new light on Brancusi’s creative process, his relationship with materials, his use of film, photography, and drawing, and his taste for music. It also addresses the global reception of his work and analyzes the views of it taken by writers and critics of his time. Moreover, it explores the significance of Brancusi’s art today, highlighting its resonance with contemporary artists.