Product Description
For undergraduate course in Modern Art, Origins of Modernism, Art Since 1945, Contemporary Art and other courses focusing on art in the 20th century. Long considered the survey of modern art, this engrossing and liberally illustrated text traces the development of trends and influences in painting, sculpture, photography and architecture from the mid-nineteenth century to the present day. Retaining its comprehensive nature and chronological approach, it now comes thoroughly reworked by Michael Bird, an experienced art history editor and writer, with refreshing new analyses, a considerably expanded picture program, and a more absorbing and unified narrative. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Art as the Definitive Indicator of the grand movements of History
Although this review is only of the third edition of this book, it is already a monumental work of artistic scholarship. It covers in a most comprehensive fashion, the history of paintings, sculpture, architecture and for the first time in this edition, has added, photography.

The author's main focus is paintings. His strategy of explanation has been to locate the essence of each new movement, reveal its characteristics to the reader in clear, non-academic prose, and in this he has succeeded beyond the reader's fondest expectation. In each case he attempts to go back to the beginning and then "walks" the reader up through each movement and thus through the ages, covering all of the schools and trends along the way.Although architecture and photography are added on at the end, they nevertheless serve to complete the overall artistic picture.

Beginning with a thorough account of the influential 19th Century academies of art; i.e., the Romantics, the Realists, the Impressionists, and post-impressionists, among others, Arnason provides a detailed analysis of what was accomplished and how the breakthroughs they represented, prepared the way for subsequent innovations such as Fauvism, Cubism, Expressionism, and Futurism. The plates are carefully annotated with background situating them properly in the movement that they apply to. All of the artistic giant's entries are presented in full-color glossy prints.

After the Dada period of WW-I, the new emerging anti-war sentiments, with its counter-cultural tinge, were viewed skeptically as unorthodox and the beginning of a generation-long anti-artistic trend. This shocked the art world into stunned acceptance of a new era of almost completely anti-cultural forms of expression. Surrealism took center stage and the young turks of that era -- led by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Paul Klee, HenriMatisse, etc., reigned until the renaissance of post-WW-II. Since then we have seen the flowering of the modern and post-modern era. Fortunately for the author (and art critics) the artistic parts all fit together and provide one of the surest indexes of the grand movement of cultural history. Five stars

Bursting for more knowledge.......
Oh dear me!I feel I must come to this books rescue. I am not an academic nor am I doing any arts courses.

In 2005 I went to New York, with a friend more knowledgable about art than I, to see the Cezanne and Pissarro exhibition at MoMA. When I arrived back in the UK I was bursting for more knowledge and information about modern art in particular.My husband, who IS an academic, went The Barber Institute Library, Birmingham and brought home half a dozen books for me to decide upon.This book was one of them.I bought several, the above in hardback, it is a physically large book.I have never looked back, it was a joy to read and I did read every word.Nor did I feel it to be a dry, dusty academic book but one written by someone with enthusiasm and a huge amount of knowledge to impart to me....."Two deep-rooted convictions underpin Arnason's 'History': first, that understanding art is a matter of fundamental importance; second, that the way to learn about art is to look for yourself....." a quote from the preface to the fifth edition.What I remember most about reading this excellent book was the NEED for all of us to LOOK at art.Then go and look again, and again.

The fifth edition covers painting, sculpture, architecture and photography.So, not only did I learn to LOOK at paintings again I looked anew at sculpture, architecture and photography .... again and again.

I thought this book was exciting and it whetted my appetite for much more!

History of Modern Art
The book was used and was just like new as quoted in the description.I will be using Amazon for my future class books and recommend Amazon highly.I also have to add that I saved $50.00 on a new book and $25.oo on a used book if I had purchased it from the college bookstore.

Art History Major Review
I bought this book for an online course I'm taking. It arrived on time and in perfect condition. I will definitely be buying all of my books for college from Amazon.com, It's so much cheaper! In the bookstore at my university this would have cost around $120 and I bought it here on amazon for $79!

heavy book has awesome content
this textbook of sorts is super informative with great color and black and white pictures of paintings discussed in the readings. ... Read more

Product Description
The Subjects of Art History provides an introduction to the historiography and theory of the history of art. Examining a variety of theoretical approaches, the editors and contributors to this volume provide interpretations of the history and contemporary relevance of such important methodologies as semiotics, phenomenology, feminism, gay and lesbian studies, museology, and computer applications, among other topics. Each essay, specially commissioned for this volume, gives a fresh perspective on the topic by demonstrating how a particular approach can be applied to the understanding and interpretation of specific works of art. This volume will be a timely contribution to the current debate on the theory and practice of art history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Mostly, boring history of art in churches.
The parts about non-European art are good but too short.There is not near enough about the actual art theory and technique of the artists and works.There is far, far, too much emphasis on religious art, and churches. I had this book for a class.I would have been very sad if I had purchased this for enjoyment.

Only b/c it is a class requirement
Stokstad's book is surprisingly biased, and full of subtle indications of cultural elitism. While this is a common problem in Western-published books on the history of art, I always find it galling when confronted with specific examples. Perhaps it is wrong of me to give a low rating to a book which has failed to be better than any of its peers, but I only purchased this textbook as a course requirement, and am still irritated by the expenditure.

Art History Review
A very informative and comprehensive study of art history.Marliyn Stokstad does an excellent job of taking what could be a very dry subject and making it interesting and desirable to read.You also get a detailed history of the people and culture that created the art she describes. A great book at a great price.

Well Designed, but Costly
An excellent treatment of art history with lush illustrations and well written text. However, quality comes with a price.

Great!
A book every art history lover must have.The only drawback is the weight of the book itself. ... Read more

Product Description
Once slighted as mere copying from China, the arts of Japan are now seen as a unique alternation of advances and withdrawals. At times the islanders produced Chinese-style works of great beauty, unmatched on the continent. When they chose to be independent, their art differs at every level. Sculpture, and even more painting, are concrete, sensuous, and emotional, speaking directly to all. All that was most native in architectural taste survived the periods of Chinese monumentality - huge temples and gridiron city plans - with little change. The rambling, wood-paper-and-bamboo dwelling re-emerged 1000 years ago, almost as it may still be seen today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Japanese art - A bird's eye view
'The Art and Architecture of Japan' is an interesting overview of the three main artistic fields: sculpture, painting and architecture. It is divided into two parts, the first one touching the first two, the second totally devoted to buildings. They have been written by different historians.

For a general and synthetic view, it is a very good book. It's main problem is the fact that all its pictures are in black and white. The original text is also a bit old, but it has been tweaked and revised, and put up-to-date with notes (specially the second part). I give it 4 and not 5 stars because of the pictures, which in an art book (and more so with Japanese art, extremely colourful), you lose a lot from the use of B & W. If you can get it cheap, it is still a great general guide.

The Art and Architecture of Japan: Third Edition
Book was in the condition it stated.Prompt delivery.I will use this seller again.

Authoritative, scholarly work on a focused subject.
I purchased this book in my never ending pursuit of sholarly discourse onJapanese Buddhist sculpture. It is one thing to study sculpture andpainting. It is quite another to understand it in the context of historyand the architecture that housed it. Enlightening, to say the least, andmeaningful reading. Its coverage of Buddhism and Buddhist art in Japan isnoteworthy. ... Read more

Product Description
For two-semester courses in Art History, Global Art History, and for Introductory Art courses taught from a historical perspective. Renowned for its authorship, scholarship and pedagogy, Art History has quickly become the gold standard of introductions to the history of art. Engaging and accessible, Stokstad's Art History gives students rich cultural and social contexts for art, along with eloquent explanations of art's formal qualities and particular terminology. Presenting a broad view of art through the centuries, it introduces beginning students to the works of all artists in all media in a positive and sympathetic manner. Art History is the most comprehensive, accessible, and magnificently illustrated work of its kind. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good condition
This book came in good condition, a few highlighted portions. I got exactly what was promised. I am very pleased with this seller.

wow
I actually saved $100 by buying this used version... theres no writing in it... the book is is great condition and i payed $4.25 .. (i was expecting a book with half the pages missing) The best deal i've got on amazon!

Encouraging and inclusive book!
Finally, an art book which includes not just female artists but also art from more regions than Europe and Great Britain.This book is concise and factual in its assessment of art history.Considering that the basic appreciation of art is subjective and therefore opinion based, Stokstad keeps her personal views to herself and merely reflects the views of each period or region which affected art (and therefore art history) and why certain types were popular.
I would recomment this as a good expansive look at art history for students or art enthusiasts!

Class Book - no
I had to have this book for my Art History I class, and the second for part II of the class. This was not a book that encouraged me to look further into art history. From what I see the author put many of her own opinions into this book. That is not what makes the history. . .history is history, not opinion based ideas and theories. I would not reccomend this book for teachers that would like to inspire their students to pursue art history further. . . good variety of art work, just not good enough to appreciate it. ... Read more

Product Description

For survey courses in Italian Renaissance art.

A broad survey of art and architecture in Italy between c. 1250 and 1600, this book approaches the works from the point of view of the artist as individual creator and as an expression of the city within which the artist was working.

History of Italian Renaissance Art, Seventh Edition, brings you an updated understanding of this pivotal period as it incorporates new research and current art historical thinking, while also maintaining the integrity of the story that Frederick Hartt first told so enthusiastically many years ago. Choosing to retain Frederick Hartt's traditional framework, David Wilkins' incisive revisions keep the book fresh and up-to-date.

Customer Reviews (17)

Joe?
This book is great, was received brand new like i asked, and timing was spot on. well. not quite, but just 1 day later than i anticipated, which is pretty damn good. given the fact that amazon cannot read minds of brilliant men. like me. if anyone's buying this because it is a required text for school than...well good luck. if anyone's buying this for pleasure it's excellent. and detailed. and high five me when you see me walking down the street for writing an awesome review :D thanks ebay!

Good buy
The book came well packaged and in great condition.

Some writing on the pages of chicken scratch hand-writing.

That aside, the pricing was fair for what I bought rather than going through my colleges bookstore which up-charged an extra $30 for a used book like this one.

Great for Art History Classes and for Personal Reference Use
I used this book for an art history course and now much later am rereading sections of it to decide what art works I will see on a trip to Florence and Venice.It covers the origins and periods of the Italian Renaissance up to 1600.The descriptions of art works are lengthy and detailed-needed for a class-and useful for learning another way to look at art when you are not an artist. The course and the book made me see this period of art as more than just a time of Madonna pictures.Works by the great artists of the time are covered as well as lesser known but interesting artists, architects, sculptors and leading figures of that period.It is a greatreference book for artist and art lover alike.The guide books mention many of the artists, churches and other buildings covered in this book, but the book has details that can help a traveler decide what to see if time does not allow seeing everything.Remember that it is about Italy only and not other countries that later experienced the Renaissance.

Of 981 illustrations only 135 in color
Illustrating accurately visual art in its presentation and analysis makes sense. Less than 14 % of all illustrations being in color seems somehow disappointing. Otherwise, the book is exquisite including its beautiful printing and bounding. All the illustrations occupy approx. a half of the 696 pages, but the text is what counts. Maps of the centers of Rome, Florence and Venice on the inside of the front cover and on the flyleaf show many important landmarks, but architecture appears to be a bit underrepresented.
CONTENTS
Prefaces and Forewords 6
A PORTFOLIO OF THE ITALIAN RENAISSANCE 9
PART ONE: THE LATE MIDDLE AGES
1. Italy and Italian Art 27
2. Duecento Art in Tuscany and Rome 43
3. Florentine Art of the Early Trecento 76
4. Sienese Art of the Early Trecento 104
5. Later Gothic Art in Tuscany and Northern Italy 133
PART TWO: THE QUATTROCENTO
6. The Beginnings of Renaissance Architecture 152
7. Gothic and Renaissance in Tuscan Sculpture 167
8. Gothic and Renaissance in Florentine Painting 187
9. The Heritage of Masaccio and the Second Renaissance Style 213
10. The Second Renaissance Style in Architecture and Sculpture 229
11. Absolute and Perfect Painting: The Second Renaissance Style 252
12. Crisis and Crosscurrents 290
13. Science, Poetry, and Prose 317
14. The Renaissance in Central Italy 350
15. Gothic and Renaissance in Venice and Northern Italy 378
PART THREE: THE CINQUECENTO
16. The High Renaissance in Florence 430
17. The High Renaissance in Rome 479
18. High Renaissance and Mannerism 535
19. High and Late Renaissance in Venice and on the Mainland 582
20. Michelangelo and the Maniera 631
Glossary 662
Bibliography 669
Index 678
Credits 696

History of Italian Renaissance Art Review
This book is beautiful and thorough, and even though I had to buy it for class, I am very glad that I did and will keep it when the semester is over. The price was right and I love the book. ... Read more

Product Description

How does an artist’s interpretation of historical events alter our understanding of them? Kings, queens, presidents, and generals from Alexander the Great to Theodore Roosevelt have commissioned paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs of major events, and artists have responded to important moments with works that forever shape historical memory.

The book deals with specific episodes, from the proclamation of the Code of Hammurabi to more recent events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. It also deals with broader themes, such as the founding of states (Persia, Rome, the Chinese Empire, the United States) and war (Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, Picasso’s Guernica). Here too are the great voyages of exploration, the industrial revolution, and much more. World history is vividly elucidated in these works of art.

Product Description
Art history is more than just a collection of dates and foreign-sounding names, obscure movements and arcane isms. Every age, for the last 50,000 years has left its unique imprint on the world, and from the first cave paintings to the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, from the Byzantine mosaics of the Hagia Sophia, to the graffiti-inspired paintings of Jean-Michel Basquiat, art history tells the story of our evolving notions of who and what we are and our place in the universe.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast who’d like to know more about the history behind your favorite works and artists, or somebody who couldn’t tell a Titian and a De Kooning—but would like to—Art History For Dummies is for you. It takes you on a tour of thirty millennia of artistic expression, covering the artistic movements, major artists, and indispensable masterworks, and the world events and cultural trends that helped spawn them. With the help of stunning black-and-white photos throughout, and a sixteen-page gallery of color images, it covers:

• The rise and fall of classical art in Greece and Rome
• The differences between Renaissance art and Mannerism
• How the industrial revolution spawned Romanticism
• How and why Post-Impression branched off from Impressionism
• Constructivism, Dadaism, Surrealism and other 20^th century isms
• What’s up with today’s eclectic art scene

Art History For Dummies is an unbeatable reference for anyone who wants to understand art in its historical context. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Save Your Money
Even if you're a "dummy" there has to be a better art history book than this. Although it claims color photos, that's only a few pages in the middle. The BW pix are small and muddy, and far, far too few. When the author says, "The xyz painting clearly shows..." it would be nice to have a photo of that painting. Many, many (most) of the historically significant artists have no illustrations of their work. There are also a few too many horrible inaccuracies (or editing mistakes?). When something is obviously stated wrong, how can I trust the other material? And let's drop the "Leonardo was a cool dude" language, OK? Bottom line: I wanted to refresh myself on art history, and this book just isn't good enough or well illustrated enough.

Good Book
Lets face it. Art history books in most cases are ancient dusty tombs that are heavy and tough enough to survive a atomic blast. This book on the other hand is a quick read and wonderful reference to any artist, armature or aspiring, to understand the basic idea of the many worlds of art that came before them. I'm very happy with my book and look forward to using it in my art history class.

Very nice and simple
Came in great condition and a very helpful book. It's clean, clear and simply laid out. If you want to have an extremely thorough brush up on Art History, this book is the way to go.

Good general review of world & art history information,
This is a great simplified resource for a quick brush-up on world & art history.If you need something for an AP, college, NBPTS or other assessment ... find additional appropriate gr. leveled resources.

Art History For Dummies
I found this book to be very informative.I have always wanted to take an Art History class, but havn't had the chance.Having this book is the next best thing.The photography is beautiful - the photos make it possible to see works of art from around the world.
Bernadette I. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Almost perfect
Easy to read (and fun as well)with most everything you would expect to find in a comprehensive history of art. Nothing new, no radical perspectives, but in depth enough to inspire further reading.
I wish it was bigger for the sake of the illustrations.

Small Book
The book is very good in that it covers the history of art in a time line format and it lists the various art periods with examples of each. I was a little disappointed that the book was so small. I did not expect that. However, it could be a good desk reference. Also I think it is a bit heavy on the nudes.

a must have for anyone studying for National Boards--excellent overview for review
I used this book to review before National Boards--good info and put my head in a good frame of mind for writing about art--and it's small and portable so easy to take everywhere when the crunch is on.

Great Reference
This book is full of information, wonderful illustrations, and it's absolutely beautiful.I'm amazed by the amount of information packed into this little book.Buy it!

Concise, excellent reproductions, and wonderful information
This book spans several centuries of art history up to the modern, contemporary era.It has an excellent wealth of knowledge and the reproductions are very high detail.Great book! ... Read more

Product Description
Digital images, Internet resources, presentation and social software, interactive animation, and other new technologies offer a host of new possibilities for art history instruction. Teaching Art History with New Technologies: Reflections and Case Studies assists faculty in negotiating the digital teaching terrain. The text documents the history of computer-mediated art history instruction in the last decade and provides an analysis of the increasing number of tools now at the disposal of art historians. It presents a series of reflections and case-studies by early adopters who have not just replaced older materials with new, but who have advanced the discipline's pedagogy in doing so. The essays illustrate how new technologies are changing the way art history is taught, summarize lessons learned, and identify challenges that remain. Given the transitional state of the field, with faculty ranging from the computer-phobic to the computer-savvy, these case studies represent a broad spectrum, from those that focus on the thoughtful integration of new technologies into traditional teaching to others that look beyond the familiar art history lecture or seminar format. They provide both practical suggestions and theoretical models for historians of art and visual culture interested in what computer-mediated applications have been successful in art history teaching and where such new approaches may be leading us. ... Read more

Product Description
Dr. Macdonald investigates the continuous developments of Art and Design education in Italy, France, Britain, Germany, and the United States. The study traces the philosophies of teachers from the age of the guilds and the academies to today, and sets them in the context of the general education theories of their times. Stuart Macdonald clarifies the whole field of art education for research and teaching purposes. He points out that the knowledge of the principles and methods of art education is essential for a true understanding of the art of different periods. He makes clear that art education should be studied within the existing education disciplines of history, philosophy, psychology, and sociology of education. Essentially factual, using many quotations from primary sources not generally available, this book gives a disciplined grounding in a branch of the history of education, and describes the philosophies which continue to govern courses in Art and Design. This finely illustrated book provides a vivid review of the history of art teaching. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A well established reference and a good read
Journal of the Royal Society of Arts
The History and Philosophy of Art Education should be in the libraries of all educational establishments.

National Society of Art Education Bulletin
Undoubtedly will be the standard book of reference for many years to come . . . authoritative and well illustrated

Education for Development
An erudite work, with the historical and social significance of findings balanced against well defined personalities, . . . eminently readable.'

Book Description
Macdonald begins his comprehensive study of the development of art education by first examining perceptions of the `artist' from the ancient civilisations to the modern age, and how these affected the evolution of art institutions, academies and societies: from Egyptian craftsmen, little more than slaves, who were drafted in to decorate monumental projects; through the Graeco-Roman impression of art and its practitioners as little better than craftsmen, incomparable to musicians or philosophers; through the establishment of the early guilds; to the fundamental change in perception towards the artist in Italy during the Renaissance, which ultimately led the way to the development of the Royal Academy in the eighteenth, and the French Academies in the nineteenth century.

Having explored it origins, Macdonald lays forth the principles behind artistic accomplishment, explaining the laws of symmetry, proportion, anatomy and perspective and how these influenced composition. He summarises each of these formulae and their impact on the development of art, from the frontal statues of early civilisations to the more complex figures in sophisticated societies, all of which were based on precise mathematical calculations.

With this heritage in both the theory and practice of art in Europe, Macdonald shows how unschooled was English art when compared to other European countries. Art education in England really began to flourish after the foundation of the Normal School of Design, established 1837 in Somerset House, and supported with enthusiasm by members of Parliament and artists alike. Criticisms of the Royal Academy, which had surfaced due to the elitism of its members and their refusal to associate with lesser artists, or non-painters, were supported through a government inquiry. Gradually, with the reform of the Royal Academy and the first design school in London, more schools of art began to appear in the provinces.

Initially governed by their founders and dictated by personal philosophies, Macdonald shows how these schools with their inauspicious beginnings yet driven by the ideals of determined men, ultimately raised English design and education to rival that of her contemporaries in France.

Macdonald examines the influences of Haydon, Morris, and the South Kensington Circle, Burne-Jones, and the Pre-Raphaelites amongst others, as well as the diverse artistic movements which were to be a product of this burgeoning period.

This enlightening study of art education and its development is essential for those studying art, design, the history of art, or art education, but will be enjoyed by a far wider audience.

Synopsis
Investigating the study of art and design education in Italy, France, Britain, Germany and the United States, this text traces the philosophies of teachers from the age of the guilds and the academies, setting them in the context of the general education theories of their times.

About the Author
Stuart Macdonald gained an international reputation when The History and Philosophy of Art Education was first published in Britain, the USA and Japan. Macdonald holds an M.Ed and a Ph.D from Manchester University, and is a practising painter and book-illustrator who has taught students pottery, fabric-printing and book-crafts. This experience led him to write about the great teachers of art and design. He has lectured on teachers' courses at the Royal College of Art, at national conferences, and at many leading institutions of art education. In 1982 he was elected the founder editor of the Journal of Art & Design Education, which within four years had subscribers in over forty countries worldwide. ... Read more

Product Description
Designed to provide readers with the tools necessary to glean a solid understanding of art history, this succinct and accessibleguide offers a practical introduction to the methodology of art history and an overview of writing in the discipline.Helping readers to think as art historians, this Third Edition encourages reflection of the “givens” in this field, explains how to ask questions and how to answer them, and challenges readers to seek new insights through their readings, discussions, and written work.For professionals with a career or interest in art, art history, writing, and/or education. ... Read more

Product Description
This new history of over 5,000 years of African art reveals its true diversity for the first time. Challenging centuries of misconceptions that have obscured the sophisticated nature of African art, Garlake focuses on seven key regions--southern Africa, Nubia, Aksum, the Niger River, West Africa, Great Zimbabwe, and the East African coast--treating each in detail and setting them in their social and historical context. Garlake is long familiar with and has extensive practical experience of both the archaeology and the art history of Africa. Using the latest research and archaeological findings, he offers exciting new insights into the works native to these areas, and he also puts forth new interpretations of several key cultures and monuments. Acknowledging the universal allure of the African art object, this stunning book helps us to understand more about the ways in which this art was produced, used, and received. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Beautiful Experience
This book is a very well rounded and well written review of the art and architecture of Africa.It is very eye opening about the artistic abilities of these ancient people.It even goes beyond what we know about their construction.You find that awe-inspiring palaces were not confined to Egypt and the rest of North Africa, but advanced societies had flourished apart from the rest of the world.I really don't want to give away any of the details, but you won't regret the purchase of this book.

Early Art and Architecture of Africa by peter garlake
book was in good condition well packed ... Read more

Product Description
"Rich in information … sharp in perception."—The Times Educational SupplementIn this illuminating history, text and illustrations combine to offer a view of furniture not as a succession of collectors’ pieces, but as a statement about the society that created it. Edward Lucie-Smith offers insights into almost every period, from the prehistoric to the postmodern—from Neolithic tables to 1960s conversation pits, and from the ceremonial chairs of Egypt in the thirteenth century BC to the designs of John Makepeace. 190 illustrations, 20 in color ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

okay but outdated
I bought this book as a short refresher course of my furniture history knowledge learned in college.It did provide that refresher but I found it lacking somewhat.

Despite being initially published in 1985, the book largely stops at mid-century modern (mid-50s/60s).Even the mid-century history is scant compared to earlier eras.

Concise History of Furniture
This is a well written and engaging book about the history of furniture from the Egyptian civilization to the present.It is full of examples and great photographs and emphasizes the meaning of furniture within the context of the society and the psychology of the individual.

Social History
Lucie-Smith addresses more than just stylistic developments in this book.He makes it easy to understand furniture history as it relates to social and political developments over time.For example, the advent of the printing press had a strong impact on furniture design in the 16th century.Of course!This all makes perfect sense now.Lucie-Smith's book is a great primer for those interested in furniture history.

Handy small guide book to start with furniture collection
Edward Lucie-Smith wrote so many books that I would be surprised he remembers this one. Every body needs to start a passion with a guide. This might be your choice. You will choose the directions you want to exploreand will buy more recent and more specialised books afterwards. ... Read more

Product Description

ART HISTORY provides students with the most student-friendly, contextual, and inclusive art history survey text on the market.  These hallmarks make ART HISTORY the choice for instructors who seek to actively engage their students in the study of art. 

This new edition of ART HISTORY is the result of a happy and productive collaboration between two scholar-teachers (Marilyn Stokstad and Michael Cothren) who share a common vision that survey courses on the history of art should be filled with as much enjoyment as erudition, and that they should foster an enthusiastic, as well as an educated, public for the visual arts. 

Like its predecessors, this new edition seeks to balance formal and iconographic analysis with contextual art history in order to craft interpretations that will engage a diverse student population.  Throughout the text, the visual arts are treated as part of a larger world, in which geography, politics, religion, economics, philosophy, social life, and the other fine arts are related components of a vibrant and cultural landscape.

Customer Reviews (11)

Great price for a much needed book
Book is in fairly good condition as described.Great price for an Art book that I would have had to pay much more for brand new.

Art History
This textbook came in excellent condition. Although, the class that it is used for may seem to be boring for anyone not going for an Art Major. Be weary while making your choices for classes.

Art History
I paid half of what the university bookstore was charging! Delivered quickly and in good quality.

Excellent
I was very pleased to get the book in a 3 days. The book is in an excellent condition. Many thanks.

Sweeping introduction to art history--Renaissance to present
My son's textbook turns out to be a pleasure to me! This is Volume Two of a two volume set on art history. It covers the period from early Renaissance art in Europe to the post-1945 international avant-garde. In between is art from Europe and other parts of the world, including India, China, Japan, the Americas, the Pacific cultures, and Africa. The Introduction places the time frame in this book in context.

The book begins with such architectural gems as the Church of Saint-Maclou in Rouen, van Eyck's art, tapestry, frescoes, the Dome of the Florence Cathedral, Donatello's sculpture, and so on. Fast forward to the avant-garde. Anselm Kiefer's painting, "Heath of the Brandenberg March," is very telling to me.

All in all, a nice tour of art in all its forms and in different regions of the world from the Renaissance to the present. . . . ... Read more

Product Description
First published in 1951, Arnold Hauser's commanding work presents an account of the development and meaning of art, from its origins in the Stone Age through to the "Film Age." This new edition of a classic work explores historical and social movements and the effects these have had on the production of art--the centrality of class and class struggle, the cultural roles of ideologies and the determining influence of modes of economic development. There are 144 illustrations within the four volumes and each volume has a new general introduction by Jonathan Harris which traces the history of Hauser's project, discusses the relevance of the work for art history today, provides a synopsis of Hauser's narrative, and offers a critical guide that highlights major themes, trends and arguments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A Sweeping Insight into Art
kalinin@terra.com.br
When I purchased The Social History of Art I had never intended to read it from cover to cover. It is, in fact, a bulky book, which covers the history of art from pre-historic to contemporary times. I thought it would be one of those books you place on your bedside table and from time to time, have a look at it, and read bits and pieces when you are sleepless in the small hours. Surprisingly, I started reading it from the very beginning and couldn't stop till I reached the final sentence. I still cannot make out how a single author managed to cope with such an ambitious project.

Unlike other books of art, which stick to the description of each style, and some artists' works as something divorced from other events that took place at the time when they were produced, this book contextualises all the art productions according to the philosophical principles that underlie them, establishing the necessary link with the historical panorama and the social and political backdrop at the time that each artist lived and produced his/her works. Above all, Hauser's The Social History doesn't stick to the analysis of the visual arts as most art books do, but on the contrary, his broad scope extends to literature, drawing, paintings and even films. Never had I dreamed of understanding art as I could understand after reading Hauser's book.

Besides, as an amateur admirer of art, I was thrilled to realise that I could read and grasp his meaning with no extra effort; even so, he never patronises the reader. After reading this book, I realised that concepts I had always taken at face value and had never disputed, had gone down the drain. To my surprise, artists such as Shakespeare and Michelangelo are, in his book, not Renaissance artists but Mannerist artists. So, you learn to evaluate the artists and classify them using a different criterion. Well, this book is good value for money! ... Read more

Product Description
For undergraduate one-semester courses in Art History, Art Appreciation, and General Humanities.Retaining the intelligence and freshness of H.W. Janson's classic original work, this unsurpassed introductory survey on the history of Western art from the ancient through modern worlds is specifically written and designed to make art history accessible and enjoyable for students. Now with a new Art History CD-ROM containing nearly 400 images in a flash card format, and an exciting new design, the Sixth Edition enhances its narrative with in-margin coverage of historical/terminology notes, drawings, tables on historical events and personages, explanation of artistic processes, and boxes with history of music and theater topics. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Basic History of Art
The book was in very good shape and was delivered before the date promised.I was very impressed with their service!

A Short History of Art, Seventh Edition
This extremely helpful book assisted in developing an understanding of the contributions of art in various cultures. It gave a deeper understanding of the worldview and cultural dynamics of various civilizations.

Useful survey of Western art
In the introduction to this edition, Anthony Janson (whose father, H.W. Janson, still has top billing for the volume) talks about the long tradition he and his father have had toward this volume and the larger work that carries the same name.It has been a standard in Western art education for decades, and the revisions periodically placed serve to bring new interpretations, perspectives and finds into the mix of history.

Prior to diving into the depths of art, Janson provides a primer - art history is a relatively new discipline, and often studied by historians and others with interest but relatively little training in artistic areas themselves.This book is about the visual arts (those of drama, music, etc. are not included here, but architecture is to some degree); Janson gives a brief survey of key concepts that are critical to understanding the mediums (artists, Janson states, prefer to use the plural of medium as mediums rather than media).Geometric and visual appreciation concepts are introduced, as are philosophical/aesthetic ideas.

The majority of the text is divided into four broad sections: The Ancient World, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance through the Rococo, and the Modern World.This is a book that really a survey or history of Western art - it does have a brief section at the beginning of the Ancient World on cave art and neolithic art in North America, but apart from this never wanders outside the main courses of Western art even in the modern period.As an introductory text, this is not surprising - many of the values and concepts of art in non-Western cultures require more explanation for adequate aesthetic appreciation of their art than an introductory survey course could cover.Still, it is a deficit worthy of note for those who are looking for a more comprehensive volume.

The Ancient World covers art of Egypt, the Fertile Crescent and Persia, Aegean/Greek art, Etruscan art, and Roman art.The section on the Middle Ages begins primarily with the rise of Christendom as the dominant political power - this includes Byzantine art, early Medieval art (Carolingian and Ottonian times), Romanesque, and the ascendancy of the Gothic style, including the great Abbey of St-Denis.The Renaissance focusses early on Italy, but also explores the Renaissance influences in Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, France, and England.The Modern Period is the most diverse, with movements such as Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Art Nouveau and other schools that had a greater tendency to cross national boundaries.The twentieth century brought about a great explosion of artistic expressions, in architecture, sculpture, painting and photography, each of which get a chapter.While the fourth section begins with a discussion of modernism, it ends with the discussion of post-modernism, a period of transition.

The colour reproductions throughout are stunning, and the use of black-and-white images to highlight details is also useful.Two-thirds of the 600 illustrations are in colour.The photographs showing architectural styles are interesting, far from being boring 'sample' shots.The text is engaging and informative, achieving a good balance between the artistic, the philosophical and the historical.There are maps, chronological tables, a glossary of terms, suggestions for further readings arranged topically, and a very useful index (always a plus for students and scholars).



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Product Description
Discusses the major painters and sculptors of the period during the last years of France's "ancien regime" - a period that started with Watteau and the "fete galante" and closed with the revolutionary history paintings of David. ... Read more

Product Description
This four-part volume uses an exceptional art program–with sumptuous color pictures–to introduce readers to a succession of art styles from prehistoric times and ancient Egypt, to the vast world of Western painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, and the minor arts. Elegantly written, it contains a balanced and interesting narrative that increases ones ability to understand art. Parts I and II cover The Ancient World and The Middle Ages, with a look at prehistoric; Egyptian; ancient near eastern; Aegean; Greek; Etruscan; Roman; early Christian, Byzantine, and Medieval; Romanesque; and Gothic art. Part III looks at the Renaissance through the Rococo–with a focus on the early and high renaissance in Italy; mannerism and other trends; “Late Gothic” painting, sculpture, and the graphic arts; and the Baroque in Italy, Spain, Flanders, Holland, France and England. Part IV is a treatment on the modern world, including Neoclassicism and Romanticism; Realism and Impressionism; Post-impressionism, Symbolism, and Art Nouveau; Twentieth-Century painting, sculpture, architecture, and photography; and Postmodernism. For those who appreciate art as individual works, rather than a mere collection of data. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Janson's History of Art
This book is a great tool for art history. I definitely recommend it to anyone taking an art history class.

Fantastic!
Exactly what I needed. The book was in great condition. Study guide would have been helpful, but not necessary. It was worth buying used to save a big chunk of change!

Great Art History Supplement
I originally bought this book as a supplement to an art history class. I am now in my third art history class and still using this book. The book is well written and laid-out chronologically with introductions for each chapter that include some of the cultural background about the period in art history. There are lots of great pictures. A detailed index that helps you find information about artists, artworks, or art periods. There are interesting sidelines that add to the current topic, such as exerpts from letters artists wrote and techniques such as the lost-wax process. In addition, each chapter includes a timeline and a summary at the end.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a supplement to an art history class or an interesting book on art in general.

HUGE BOOK
I'm using the book for an art history class.It might've been more useful to buy the book in sections.I hear that the book is also printed as two books (halves) which would be much more useful and convenient to move around.

shweet
love it! very informative and has the best of the best artworks. but could use a modern edition strictly of the 20th century ... Read more

Product Description
"Art of Nature" is an astonishing visual record of the exploration of parts of the natural world that had never previously been documented. It features many of the greatest natural history artists of the last 300 years - Merian, Bartram, Ehret, the Bauer brothers, Audubon and Gould. Some were seeking fame as scientists or artists, others sought financial gain or at least the prospect of earning a living in what they loved doing. For some it also provided them with the opportunity to present their view of nature to a wider community. Whatever the reasons, few would have contradicted Humboldt's comment that he was spurred on by an uncertain longing for what is distant and unknown, for whatever excited my fantasy: danger at sea, the desire for adventures, to be transported from a boring daily life to a marvellous world. Continent by continent Judith Magee draws on the unrivalled collections of the Library of the Natural History Museum to illustrate the development of natural history art through the centuries and its crucial role in furthering people's appreciation of nature all around the world. ... Read more