February 4–April 29, 2007

Beginning around 1635–36, Claude made highly finished copy drawings of nearly all his paintings in a bound sketchbook. Claude claimed he started the book—called the Liber Verititas, or Book of Truth—to discourage forgery of his work. It also served as a catalogue of his painted compositions, often recording the dates of their execution and the names of their owners. In developing new paintings, such as his views of Tivoli, Claude often turned to the Liber for inspiration. Over time these drawings became increasingly complex, almost like miniature paintings. Liber drawings in the exhibition are identified by a number indicating their position in the original sketchbook.

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Introduction