As the Metropolitan Museum of Art has the finest collection of American paintings in the world, this selection of 100 masterpieces by 67 artists represents the highlight of American paintings, and the highlight of the Museum collection. Not a general survey, the book covers painting in America from the colonial period to World War I, ending with the group of artists known as The Eight. 35 paintings are reproduced not only in full but also with four-color details that give the viewer a new look into the artist's style. The text with each painting gives insight as to the ideas or motivation behind the work, and other relevant information. A list of illustrations and select bibliography is included. The binding is deep green cloth with the title blind stamped. The dust jacket is fine but for one spot where a cat clearly placed its claws on the spine and closely on the back. Five tiny punctures. ; Folio - over 12 - 15" tall