Jacob Epstein ranks among the finest and most influential sculptors of this century. Stephen Gardiner knew the Epstein family intimately and draws on personal research and a mass of unpublished papers to paint a picture of the man and his art. He unravels the complex story of Epstein's life, assesses the origins of his massive output of work and analyzes his unending battles with traditionalists and the Establishment. From childhood beginnings in Manhattan, Epstein rose rapidly to fame and quickly attracted the animosity of the anti-modern brigade. Notoriety also brought him friendships with, among others, Hulme, Muirhead Bone, Augustus John, Modigliani and Picasso. In this biography, Gardiner traces the links between Epstein's life and work and the influence of the women in his life: Margaret, his wife, and Kathleen Garman, his mistress.