"An examination of the development of the nude as an artistic motif in the visual culture of Renaissance Europe, 1400-1530"--Provided by publisher.

"This comprehensive program focuses on the rich artistic history of Tuscany from its masterpieces of painting and sculpture to the region's spectacular architecture. Treasures of sacred art journeys into churches, oratories, monasteries, abbeys and museum to highlight the works of such important masters as Cimabue, Giotto, Duccio and Michelangelo. Travel back in time and learn how these artists made Tuscany the most important center for Christian...

'Art, my dear boy,' said Mr Askern, 'especially sacred art, needs tradition. Tradition is the bedrock of our art . . .' He broke off, staring at the woman in front of him. Her face seemed to lose all definition and her skin turned an unnatural shade of putty-coloured grey. 'Art,' she said, her voice scarcely more than a whisper. 'Art! Oh my God, art!' She swayed dangerously. Jack leapt forward, catching her as she fell. Jack Haldean expected Lythewell...

A fascinating exploration of art created by the varied Armenian kingdoms that connected the East and West during the Middle Ages. As the first people to officially convert to Christianity, Armenians commissioned and produced astonishing religious objects. This sumptuous volume depicts and contextualizes the compelling works of art that defined the rich and complicated culture of medieval Armenians, including carvings, liturgical furnishings, beautifully...

This magnificent volume explores the epochal transformations and unexpected continuities in the Byzantine Empire from the 7th to the 9th century. At the beginning of the 7th century, the Empire's southern provinces, the vibrant, diverse areas of North Africa and the eastern Mediterranean, were at the crossroads of exchanges reaching from Spain to China. These regions experienced historic upheavals when their Christian and Jewish communities encountered...

"One of the foremost painters of the 15th century, Dieric Bouts was a master of composition, technical precision, and spiritual messaging. But, as this innovative exhibition catalog suggests, he was also a shrewd commercial artist, successfully procuring important commissions, and expertly conveying religious devotion. Filled with new perspectives informed by the latest research, this volume explores how Bouts’ career was influenced by the cultural...