This is the perfect introduction to art history and the art world—rich with information and prolifically illustrated with reproductions of masterpieces from every era and from around the world. Extraordinarily compact yet richly written and extensively illustrated, this remarkable introduction to art traces the evolution of art movement by movement, throughout time and across the world. Filled with classic and iconic masterpieces as well as lesser-known marvels awaiting greater attention, it includes a thorough assessment of artists, movements, concepts, and key works. Among the distinctive features included are the timeline at the foot of each page positioning each work in time and place in relation to other masterpieces and artistic trends. Also included are boxed "focal points" exploring up-close unusual details in the work of art profiled; "artist profiles" allowing the reader to delve deeper into the life and work of key artists; and special in-depth features on related topics, such as how the cost of oil paint affected artistic choices in the Dutch Golden Age, tips on visiting a museum for the first time, or how to start an art collection. Each featured art work appears with detailed analysis explaining everything from signs and symbols in art to visual metaphors and technical innovations. Meant to be a book that can be read from beginning to end or browsed randomly, this will make a treasured gift as well as a wonderful self-indulgence.