Reviews for Art History

The average rating for Art History based on 2 reviews is 4.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2016-09-18 00:00:00 David Bacco While I have always been interested in the history of art, I really didn’t know much about the subject. In order to rectify that fact, a few years ago I went in search of a good introductory book. After some research, I ended up picking up a copy of Marilyn Stokstad’s two-volume set, and I have been picking my way through it ever since, finally polishing volume two off earlier this week. Art History is designed as textbook for art history courses, and it can read like a textbook at times (albeit an engaging one). However, it has plenty to offer the general reader. The book is extremely comprehensive, covering artwork from prehistoric cave paintings through the modern and post-modern era. While plenty of space is devoted to Western artwork, Stokstad also spends time discussing artwork from all over the world. While the emphasis is on painting and sculpture, a significant amount of time is spent on architectural development as well. The book is chock-full of high quality, color photographs of the artwork under discussion, which was an important factor for me. While the writing is simple and direct (again, think textbook), Stokstad writes clearly and does a good job of explaining the importance of artistic movements and concepts for the layman. With a scope this large, Art History is forced to march pretty quickly through some major artists and time periods that I would have liked to see covered in greater depth. But as an introductory volume this was very effective and informative, and if it left me wanting to know more about specific artists and their careers, then perhaps it did its job. 4.0 stars, recommended!

Review # 2 was written on 2009-08-24 00:00:00 T P Brosterman It's huge, very heavy. Had to read the whole book (except architecture) for a 1 year docent class. Great resource -- but too big to carry to a class!!