Janson's Basic History of Western Art (8th ed.)

Know around the globe simply as "Janson," Janson's History of Art has introduced generations of students and scholars to the history of art, and has inspired millions of art lovers. This is the first concise version of the text to be thoroughly rewritten by a headline-making team of six distinguished experts. Richly illustrated and updated throughout, this classic provides an inviting exploration of 30,000 years of Western Art. This edition uses an exceptional art program--with sumptuous color pictures--to introduce readers to a succession of art styles from prehistoric times and ancient Egypt, to the vast world of Western painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, and the minor arts.

Elegantly written, it contains a balanced and interesting narrative that increases one's ability to understand art, even as it encourages further exploration into the vast and rewarding topic.