Alberto Giacometti is one of the few artists of the last century whose work is almost more recognisable than his name. His distinctive elongated figures are inescapably associated with the post-war climate of existentialist despair. However, the story of Giacometti's evolution, from his first professional works of art through his surrealist compositions, to the emergence of his mature style has rarely been explored fully and in depth. This comprehensive overview of Giacometti's career focuses on the art, the people and the events that influenced him, and on the original and experimental way in which he approached and developed his work. An illustrated glossary of texts on his life and work is accompanied by a plate section of strikingly beautiful illustrations of his sculptures, paintings and drawings as well as sketchbooks, decorative works and photographs from the Foundation Alberto et Annette Giacometti archive some of which have never been published before. Working in collaboration with the Fondation Alberto et Annette Giacometti, Tate has been given unparalleled access to the Foundation's extraordinary collection and archive.As well as spectacular colour plates and installation shots, the publication includes photographs, drawings, books and studio ephemera, much of which has never been seen in public. Addressing a unique space in the market for a high quality but accessible survey of Giacometti, this book is the definitive resource for fans of the artist, both new and existing.