This book chronicles the artistic evolution and thematic concerns of Simon Brett, a prominent wood engraver, by cataloging his work from 1961 to 2013 and exploring the influences that shaped his distinctive style. Brett's career spans decades of significant cultural shifts, from the idealism of the 1960s to the materialism of the 1970s and the subsequent disillusionment of the 1980s, all of which are filtered through his unique artistic lens. The book examines how his engagement with classic art, modernist appropriationist techniques, and a deep commitment to the craft of engraving inform both his commissioned illustrative work and his independent prints. It highlights the dual demands of commissioned illustration: a grounding in literature and history, coupled with a contemporary moral sensibility.

This catalogue raisonné and accompanying essays offer a deep dive into the oeuvre of a significant contemporary wood engraver, providing an invaluable resource for collectors, art historians, and enthusiasts of printmaking. The work is presented as a testament to Brett's mastery of his craft and his ability to translate complex themes and historical contexts into compelling visual art. The structure of the book, combining a chronological catalogue with analytical essays, suggests a scholarly yet accessible approach to understanding the artist's fifty-year career.