The Story Of Art
E.H. Gombrich's "The Story of Art" is a landmark work of art history, renowned for its clear and engaging prose, its broad scope, and its insightful approach to understanding art. While the specific edition you mention is the 3rd edition from 1950, the core principles and structure of the book remained consistent across editions, even as it was updated with new discoveries and perspectives.
A Narrative Approach: Unlike many art history books that focus on movements or styles, Gombrich tells the story of art as a continuous narrative, starting with prehistoric cave paintings and moving through various periods and cultures up to modern art. This approach makes art history accessible and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.
Emphasis on Tradition and Innovation: Gombrich explores how artistic traditions evolve and how artists build upon the work of their predecessors. He also highlights the moments of innovation and revolution that have shaped the course of art history.
Focus on the Artist's Perspective: Gombrich tries to understand art from the artist's point of view, considering the challenges they faced and the solutions they found. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which art was created.
Rejection of Grand Theories: Gombrich avoids imposing rigid theories or interpretations on art. He encourages readers to look at art with open eyes and to appreciate its diversity and complexity.
Global Perspective: While primarily focused on Western art, "The Story of Art" also includes discussions of art from other cultures, broadening the reader's understanding of art history.
Accessible Language: Gombrich's writing style is clear, concise, and engaging. He avoids jargon and explains complex ideas in a way that is easy to understand, making the book accessible to a wide audience.
Continuous Revision: Gombrich continued to revise and update "The Story of Art" throughout his life, incorporating new scholarship and insights. Even though you're looking at the 3rd edition from 1950, later editions built upon this foundation.
In short, "The Story of Art" is more than just a history of art; it's an exploration of human creativity and expression. It's a book that has inspired generations of readers and continues to be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about art. The 3rd edition from 1950 represents an important stage in the book's development, offering a glimpse into Gombrich's thinking at that time.
By E H Gombrich
3rd Edition from 1950 (MCML)
Hardback
Very Good Used Condition for its age - see images.
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