• The most comprehensive history of world art, from prehistoric works to contemporary performances and installations
• Over 1,100 colour reproductions of world masterpieces
• All art forms: from painting and sculpture to conceptual art

This book is not merely an album of pictures, but a fascinating account of how perceptions of beauty, power, faith and creativity have evolved over the millennia. From primitive petroglyphs to digital installations, from Egypt to Japan, from the Renaissance to the present day — here is the history of humanity as seen through the eyes of artists. Every page is a discovery; every era offers a new perspective on the world.
Genre: a popular science illustrated book on art. The book will appeal to students, lecturers, artists, designers, cultural historians and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how art has shaped the world and humanity. It is the ideal introduction to the history of art, as well as a worthy addition to any home library.

From the publisher:

This comprehensive volume introduces the reader to world masterpieces of architecture, sculpture, painting and conceptual art. Written by renowned art historians and cultural historians, this richly illustrated book will help readers form an understanding of the most iconic works. The authors trace the evolution of artistic thought from ancient times to the present day, accompanying the articles with a chronological timeline that makes it easier to situate them within their historical context.