Joseph Pike has rather faded from prominence but in his time was an acclaimed artist and illustrator, particularly of architecture, street scenes and British landmarks, and was even exhibited at the Royal Academy. A quiet man, he has been largely forgotten and this detailed and thoroughly researched biography will hopefully help him regain some recognition. The author has been helped by Pike’s family, in particular his grandson Hugh Salmon, and has had access to family archives. The book is lavishly illustrated, and includes the articles Pike wrote entitled “Hints on the Art of Pencil Drawing”, a series he composed for The Artist magazine. I don’t think anyone can pretend that Pike is a major British artist but in his quiet way he did make a contribution to British art and I was very pleased to discover him. An interesting and well-written biography.

This is an interesting biography of the British artist Joseph Pike. The artist is mainly known for sketches and illustrations of famous British Landmarks for travel and history books. He was educated by monks and kept his Catholic Faith his entire life. I really enjoyed reading about the artists travels around England. Even though he was very popular in his lifetime he is largely forgotten today. I was glad the text also includes a lot of illustrations so you can see his work. Anyone with an interest in art or travel will enjoy this book.

Book did not keep my attention. I can't recommend something I never finished reading.

I would like to thank James Downs and troubador publishing for the advanced copy of this book. When I recieved it I quickly flicked thorough the pages and glanced at the illustrations and thought that Joseph Pikes style of pencil drawing was not for me. How wrong I was about this book!
When I recieved a prompt email to write a review I took another look. The first chapter of the Catholic Revival was an clear and balanced look at the persecution Roman Catholics a part of British history that is much overlooked. The rest of the book reads like an episode of 'Who do you think you are' and is just as engaging. Before I knew I was already half way through the book.
Josephs is a excellent draughtsman and his work was of it's time although still not to my taste Also included here are his thoughts published in 'The Artist' Hints on the art of the pencil. Here I agree with him whole heartedly. People give up too soon when learning to draw. Like learning an musical instrument it takes time and lots of practice.
I think I would have liked to talk about art and faith with Joseph Pike. A nice man.