A unique and fascinating journey into Muscle Art by two leading Physical Culture historians, Alan Radley and David Gentle. This exciting study comprehensively explores the Art of the muscular body, as it has developed and evolved throughout time, and in all its variety and wonder.
We investigate the Muscular Ideal as exemplified in sports like weightlifting and bodybuilding, plus in sculpture, painting and photography, movies and cartoons etc. An exhaustive history of Muscle Art is brought to life in a vibrant cultural context.
This profusely illustrated volume traces the history of the establishment of physical standards of beauty and aesthetics, and also the athletic capabilities of the muscular physique. The Ideal Body, both real and unreal, developed and imagined, is revealed in terms of beauty, shape, symmetry, and proportions.
Contains ~ 1000 illustrations (100+ in colour)