History of Art
by H.W. Janson, Anthony F. Janson
History of Art by H.W. Janson, Anthony F. Janson holds a well received rating of 3.80 out of 5, based on 22.1K reader ratings. First published in 1962. The book spans 1,000 pages.
About History of Art
For 1000s of art lovers both amateur & professional, esthetic life began with Janson, as his History of Art is often called. In the 1st edition, published in 1962, he spoke to that perennial reader he gently called "the troubled layman." His opening paragraph revealed his sympathy: "Why is this supposed to be art?" he quoted rhetorically. "How often have we heard this question asked--or asked it ourselves, perhaps--in front of one of the strange, disquieting works that we are likely to find nowadays in the museum or art exhibition?" Keeping that curious, questioning perspective in mind, he wrote a history of art from cave painting to Picasso that was singularly welcoming, illuminating & exciting. Sojourning thru this book, a reader is offered every amenity for a comfortable trip. Because he never assumes knowledge on the part of the reader, a recent immigrant from Mars could comprehend Western art from this text. The only assumption the Jansons have made is that with a little guidance everyone can come to understand the artifacts that centuries of architecture, sculpture, design & painting have deposited in our paths. Countless readers have proven the Jansons right & found their lives enriched in the process.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Author | H.W. Janson, Anthony F. Janson |
| Published | 1962 |
| Pages | 1,000 |
| Genres | Arts & Photography, History, Non-Fiction, Classics, Fiction |
| Average Rating | 3.80 / 5.00 |
| Total Ratings | 22,146 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What genre is History of Art?
History of Art is categorized as Arts & Photography, History, Non-Fiction, Classics. Its primary genre classification is Classics.
Is History of Art worth reading?
Based on 22.1K reader ratings, History of Art has an average score of 3.80 out of 5.00, which is considered "Well Received."
How many pages is History of Art?
History of Art has 1,000 pages. It is a longer read suited for dedicated readers.
Who wrote History of Art?
History of Art was written by H.W. Janson, Anthony F. Janson. It was first published in 1962.
What is the ISBN for History of Art?
The ISBN-13 for History of Art is 9780500237520.0.
Data sourced from community book ratings and reviews. Last updated: April 15, 2026
