Medieval Art (Oxford History of Art) - Softcover

"This is the ideal beginner's guide to five hundred years of European art. Medieval artists are no longer to be seen as anonymous drudges, but as engaged craftsmen, in tune with their patrons' tastes and audience expectations."--Miri Rubin, Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London "This is a new look at medieval art for a new century, and a thorough rethinking of the way to present it. Organized thematically instead of chronologically, geographically, or by medium, it is sure to arouse the interest and sustain the attention of the reader."--Lucy Freeman Sandler, New York University

This refreshing new look at Medieval art conveys a very real sense of the impact of art on everyday life in Europe from 1000 to 1500. It examines the importance of art in the expression and spread of knowledge and ideas, including notions of the heroism and justice of war, and the dominant view of Christianity.

Taking its starting point from issues of contemporary relevance, such as the environment, the identity of the artist, and the position of women, the book also highlights the attitudes and events specific to the sophisticated visual culture of the Middle Ages, and goes on to link this period to the Renaissance. The fascinating question of whether commercial and social activities between countries encouraged similar artistic taste and patronage, or contributed to the defining of cultural difference in Europe, is fully explored.