Stupid Faces in Stunning Paintings: A Serious Exploration of Art History's Silliest Expressions - Hardcover

Matthijs Van Mierlo

Hardcover

ISBN 13: 9798890034199

Publisher: Macmillan, 2026

Synopsis

This collection of illustrious paintings spotlights 50 outlandish expressions from prominent works of art that will have readers laughing until they cry. 50 Strange Faces, 50 Great Stories Famous paintings are celebrated for their beauty and depth, but they’re also a treasure trove of ridiculous faces. From bewildered angels to screaming cats, stunning paintings are chock-full of weird expressions. In Stupid Faces in Stunning Paintings, Matthijs Van Mierlo takes you on a journey to the strangest corners of the art world, uncovering the stories behind 50 wacky faces—stories about religion, love, vanity, and just one very confused unicorn. Why does Vermeer’s The Girl with the Wine Glass look so bug-eyed? Who let Frida Kahlo paint a disturbingly dazed toddler? And why does baby Jesus look like he’s about to file your taxes? This is the art history book to answer those questions and more, perfect for anyone who loves a great painting and a good laugh.

About this title

About the Author

Matthijs Van Mierlo is the creator and writer of The Gaze, a popular art history channel on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Through humour and sharp storytelling, his videos make art and visual culture accessible (and hilariously entertaining). He lives in Antwerp, Belgium.

Edition details

• Publisher: Macmillan
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 13: 9798890034199
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 240