Author Description

Presenting a broad range of human artistic expression, the International Encyclopedia of Art set examines the art of cultures across the world, from prehistoric times to the present day. This global coverage features many cultural traditions, from folk and indigenous arts to the fine art of the West. Fully illustrated with many color and black-and-white spreads, the books include not only formal art reproductions, but reproductions of manuscripts, sketchbooks, and other material, offering a fresh, firsthand account of events. Each fascinating volume focuses on a specific geographic area in a flexible, chronological framework. Key artistic developments are highlighted, and art and artists are examined within their wider historical and cultural contexts. This volume covers everything from rock painting in southern Africa (from approximately 29,000 B.C.) to the various art forms of the twentieth century. Coverage includes: -- Sculpture in the city of Ife in Nigeria -- The cultures of Benin and the Asante confederation -- The art of the mask in West Africa -- The influence of African art in the New World.