France: In the Footsteps of the Great Artists

The second volume in the Art of Travel series invites you to experience the cultural hotspots of France, with its best-loved artists as your tour guides.

Imagine hurrying down the corridors of pre-revolutionary Versailles in the company of Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun, the most sought-after portraitist of her day. Who will you meet as you drop in at her studio? The Duchess of Polignac, one of the great beauties of the Ancien Régime, or the ill-fated queen herself, Marie Antoinette? Or fast-forward to the 19th century, to the Provence of Cézanne and Van Gogh, before moving on to the French Riviera, where for six months Picasso made his home.

With twelve chapters, each devoted to an artist or group of artists, and accompanying itineraries, you can immerse yourself in their world, wandering in and out of palaces, grand residences and artist's studios to admire their work in situ – all from the comfort of your armchair. A bespoke illustrated map with hand-drawn vignettes brings to vivid life episodes from the artists' often turbulent lives, as well as key landmarks and local colour. Set off on your own Grand Tour for the 21st century.