Frederic Taubes, a New York artist who was also known for his writing and teaching, died yesterday in Nyack (N.Y.) Hospital after a long illness. Mr. Taubes, who lived in Haverstraw, N.Y., was 81 years old.

Mr. Taubes, who came to New York from Poland in 1932, was best known for his paintings, sketches and etchings.

Exhibitions of his work were displayed in many galleries and museums thoughout the world.

He wrote 40 books on art history, criticism and painting techniques. He was known in particular for his research and writing on oil painting techniques. His most recent book, ''A Judgment of Art, Fact and Fiction,'' was published last month.

From 1942 until 1959, Mr. Taubes was an editor of American Artist magazine. He also was a contributing editor of the Encyclopedia Britannica.

While painting and writing, Mr. Taubes taught and lectured at various unversities in this country and abroad from 1937 until the late 1970's.

Mr. Taubes is survived by his wife, Lili; a son, Frank of Mamaroneck, N.Y., and four grandchildren.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/1981/06/21/obituaries/frederick-taubes-artist-and-author-of-40-books.html