Let's talk about this intriguing book that blends art history with eroticism. Having spent evenings flipping through its pages, I can confirm it's a visually striking collection that sparks conversations.
The print quality is exceptional - you can practically feel the texture of the brushstrokes in the reproductions. The heavy, glossy paper makes each illustration pop, though some photos could indeed benefit from better lighting and resolution.
Henry Miller's introduction alone is worth the price of admission. His witty commentary provides fascinating context about how erotic art functioned in different historical periods. The anecdote about Courbet's famously controversial painting (and how its reception changed over time) particularly stuck with me.
Where this book shines is in its curation. It's not just titillation - there's genuine artistry here spanning three centuries. The progression from Rococo playfulness to modernist abstraction shows how artists approached erotic themes differently across movements.
Now for the drawbacks: The Kindle edition situation is downright confusing. I was disappointed to discover it only covers the 18th century material despite the description suggesting otherwise. Also, beware of language versions - some buyers received French editions when expecting English.
The used book market might be your best bet here. My slightly battered copy has held up beautifully, and at a fraction of the original price. Just avoid sellers with questionable packaging practices based on other reviewers' experiences.
For art lovers with an interest in this niche, it's a worthwhile addition to your collection - more scholarly than scandalous, despite what some might assume from the subject matter.