The Art Book

There is no introductory essay, there are no comparative illustrations, and there is little placement of these 500 works in historical context. The Art Book is a completely visual survey of the history of art. Each of the 500 great works is arranged by artist from A to Z. Works are not surrounded with historical data, supplemental illustrations, or other works by the artist, which relieves viewers of expectations or influence and allows them to judge each piece as it appears. The editors of the book are not irresponsible, though. Information critical to the work and its creator is unobtrusively listed in upper and lower margins of the page, giving some context and allowing each work to be reproduced as largely as possible. With its large format, elegance, and well-produced illustrations, The Art Book is hard to put down, once you have picked it up.