Helen Gardner (1) (1878–1946)

I wasn't expecting to enjoy this as much as I am -- perhaps because it's a well-established textbook, I anticipated loads of information but dull writing. What a surprise! This is amazingly informative AND engaging. It's enormous, of course, which makes comfortable reading a bit of a challenge* ... but no complaints about the book's contents. And I'm only up to the Etruscan chapter ...

* unless you enjoy abdominal divots. I don't. ;^)

We used this book in my Art History course, and I also own the second volume, but it was not listed on this site. I gave it 5-stars because the material taught from it and the lectures my professor gave to support it sparked an interest in art history and history itself. I am about to receive my Associate of Arts in the Liberal Arts, but at my next university, I plan on majoring in Art History or History with a minor in Art History. I think it is a true testament to how great this book truly is.

I used it before as a student and afterwards as a teacher.
Even though there are fortunately some other good books on the subject this one has been the best one. Each new edition has even enhanced all the good qualities in this book.

It includes not only all cultures and periods described in a clear and thorough way, but also a really good bibliography that has helped me a lot while trying to find a book about an artis, period or culture. This bibliography is really superior to any other show more introduction to Art History. show less

Gardner's Art Through the Ages (first published in 1926 by Helen Gardner) is a definitive, comprehensive textbook surveying Western and non-Western art history from the Paleolithic era to the present. It covers painting, sculpture, and architecture, emphasizing chronological development, context, and, in later editions, diverse global perspectives