Spanning the period from romanticism to neo-impressionism, this beautiful book reveals the extraordinary richness, diversity, and inventiveness that fuelled a remarkably creative period of French drawing — called the paper century in the opening essay. Brilliant drawings by Degas, Monet, Cezanne, Gauguin, and Seurat as well as by many of their peers allow for a close inspection of such key artistic movements as realism, impressionism, and the art of the Nabis and Symbolists. With about 170 colour reproductions, this volume serves as a perfect introduction to the exquisite techniques and talent of artists whose work continues to inspire and amaze.