Hermitage Masterpieces

Anyone desiring a tour of the huge collection of the famous Russian museum, but lacking the time or the kopeks to travel all the way to St. Petersburg, will appreciate this 1992 vintage, eight-hour, three-disc set. Though made without much flair or imagination, Hermitage Masterpieces manages--over the course of 18 half-hour programs--to cover much artistic ground in a solid, competent fashion, both on the contents of this particular collection and on the history of world art in general (even if some areas--Africa, for example--are not represented). Introductory episodes offer overviews of the history of the museum and its architectural splendor, but the lion's share of the series is devoted to the art of particular regions, epochs, and movements--ranging from the Ancient East, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Middle Ages, through the early and high Italian Renaissance and the Dutch, Flemish, and Spanish masters, to 19th-century impressionism and modernism. As the camera lovingly passes over paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts, voiceover narration provides both context and commentary, much of it in the form of anecdotal history and details of craftsmanship. And while R. Parsons' smooth, soothing intonation can seem affected at times, the information is sound, and the musical selections chosen to complement the visuals are appropriate. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)