"John Martin's spectacular paintings, featuring panoramic scenes of battles, biblical catastrophes and the vastness of nature, moved and astonished viewers in his own day. The legacy of his apocalyptic imagery remains clearly visible today, in art, popular culture and blockbuster cinema. Yet his success was controversial: many critics thought his work vulgar and misguided, and were further confused by Martin;s engagement with science, engineering and public affairs. Perhaps as a result, he has been unjustly neglected by modern art history. This long-overdue reassessment surveys the full range of Martin's achievement, examining the paintings and prints that made him famous, as well as his astoundingly accomplished watercolours. With many stunning illustrations capturing the full drama of Martin's vision, the book also includes searching essays by leading authorities on his life and work, providing new insights into the career of an extordinary and driven artist with a perpetually enquiring mind."--P [4] of cover.