This incredible retrospective takes a sweeping look at the origins, historical influences and growth of art in the Western world, all the way from ancient cave paintings to video art, taking in Egyptian sculpture, Gothic architecture, Romanticism, Surrealism and many more schools and styles along the way. Sumptuously illustrated, with reproductions of the most definitive examples of each era, and including showcases which highlight the meaning behind the art, "Art of the Western World" is a brilliantly detailed summary for anyone interested in art or art history. Featuring key information on the political and social influences which drove each artist to do what they did, this book merges an incredible variety of high-quality artwork reproductions with a vast wealth of knowledge. In this way it is as suitable for an art student as it is a gallery visitor. It features a full index of artists and works.