Understanding Paintings: Themes in Art Explored and Explained

The first and only book to discuss the entire history of painting by genre, rather than by chronology, this fresh approach gives readers a new and enlightened way to view and understand the language of art through the ages. What was the artist trying to convey? Who are those figures supposed to be? Why do images and symbols recur? This book clearly answers these and other questions that viewers often ponder as they tour museums. Every category of subject matter is studied: religious art, myth and allegories, the nude, history painting, still life, portraiture, landscape, genre, and abstraction. Each chapter has an introduction and illustrated overview of the information to be covered, followed by spreads that trace the development of the featured art. The reader is shown, for instance, how self-portraits were conceived at various times and how techniques evolved; which aspects of still life drew on recurrent traditions and which others altered over time. A prized possession to be acquired by art appreciators for their own personal use or as a thoughtful gift, this volume promises to broaden readers' understanding of all the art movements and major artists' work that form the body of Western art.
ASIN: 0823055795
VSKU: BVV.0823055795.G
Condition: Good
Author/Artist:Hollis Clayson|Alexander Sturgis
Binding: Hardcover
Note: Any images shown are stock photographs and product may differ from what is shown.
Condition Notes: The item shows wear from consistent use, but it remains in good condition and works perfectly. All pages and cover are intact including the dust cover, if applicable . Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May NOT include discs, access code or other supplemental materials.