The Art of Rivalry: Four Friendships, Betrayals, and Breakthroughs in Modern Art, written by Sebastian Smee, examines the complex relationships between four pairs of renowned artists: Manet and Degas, Picasso and Matisse, Pollock and de Kooning, and Freud and Bacon. This book delves into the intense rivalries, artistic influences, and personal dynamics that shaped the art world. It offers a fascinating exploration of how these friendships and conflicts fueled artistic breakthroughs and pushed the boundaries of modern art. With its compelling narratives and thought-provoking analysis, this book provides a fresh perspective on the lives and works of these influential artists.