Title: An affordable reference on Art History; but seriously lacking
Review: "Art: A New History: by Paul JohnsonIf nothing else, this text has a bargain price; but there are critical shortcomings with the book. First, it is minimally illustrated, even if the colorful reproductions in the book are useful. What it lacks is reproduction of some of the most critical drawings and paintings ever made. It has only a couple of works by Francisco Goya, and none of his major work. Likewise with Picasso. "Guernica" is not represented in the book, and it is one of the most powerful murals the artist ever produced.Another reviewer correctly identified that the history seems to elevate certain secondary or minor aspects of art history, while sublimating major or primary elements of art history. This is a difficulty.Although the book is large, and has some utility, I cannot recommend it highly. If one can afford it, some usefulness can be obtained, but it may leave the reader with an erroneous perception of the artists.
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