Gardner's Art through the Ages (1927)

I wasn't expecting to enjoy this as much as I am -- perhaps because it's a well-established textbook, I anticipated loads of information but dull writing. What a surprise! This is amazingly informative AND engaging. It's enormous, of course, which makes comfortable reading a bit of a challenge ... but no complaints about the book's contents. And I'm only up to the Etruscan chapter ... ( )

Classic text with many illustrations and explanations. ( )

840 pages; index and glossary in rear; 23 chapters. Pages tight, glossy, slight yelloweing on pages and edges; usual ex-library markings; Numerous b.w photos, illustrations, maps, and reproducations of art--Completely revised edition containing over 500 new illustations plus eight color plates. Has reputation of being the most complete one volume history of art in English. Yellow orange hard covers with black lettering and illustrations of art on covers. Dust jacket has mylar protector- scuffing and soiled areas on mylor protector; dj has black lettering and art reproduction on front and back dj. Section headings include: Introduction; Ancient Art; European Art; Non-European Art; ; Modern Art. Chapters headings include: Prehistoric; Egyptian; Middle Eastern; Aegean; Geek; Etruscan and Roman; Early Christian and Byzantine; Medieval; Renaissance; Baroque and Rococo; Colonial American; Russian; Islamic; Southeast Asian; Chinese; Japanese; Pre-Columbian May, Mexican, and Andean; North American Indian;; Primitive; Paianting; Photography, Sculpture; Architecture.

1333

I used it before as a student and afterwards as a teacher.
Even though there are fortunately some other good books on the subject this one has been the best one. Each new edition has even enhanced all the good qualities in this book.

It includes not only all cultures and periods described in a clear and thorough way, but also a really good bibliography that has helped me a lot while trying to find a book about an artis, period or culture. This bibliography is really superior to any other introduction to Art History. ( )