Art, Art History & Graphic Design: Background Information

Includes all subject areas in the classical arts, including philosophers, rulers, writers and artists, architecture, ceramics, sculpture, and more. Contains over 800 entries tracing the development of the art forms in classical civilizations such as ancient Greece and Rome.

Covers thousands of years of decorative arts production throughout western and non-western culture. With over 1,000 entries, this title includes hundreds of entries on artists and craftsmen, the qualities and historic uses of materials, as well as concise definitions on art forms and style.

Offers over 1,600 up-to-date entries on Islamic art and architecture ranging from the Middle East to Central and South Asia, Africa, and Europe and spans over a thousand years of history. Entries provide in-depth art historical and cultural information about dynasties, art forms, artists, architecture, rulers, monuments, archaeological sites and stylistic developments.

Covers all aspects of art and architecture in Medieval Western Europe, from the 6th century to the early 16th century. Includes biographies of major artists, architects and patrons; countries, cities, and sites; cultures and styles; ivories, books and illuminated manuscripts, metalwork, architecture, painting, tapestries, sculpture, mosaics, reliquaries, and more.