The Story of Art - by Eh Gombrich (Paperback)

About the Book

A new, compact edition of the most popular art book ever written.

Book Synopsis

The Story of Art, one of the most famous and popular books on art ever written, has been a world bestseller for over half a century. Attracted by the simplicity and clarity of his writing, readers of all ages and backgrounds have found in Professor Gombrich a true master, who combines knowledge and wisdom with a unique gift for communicating his deep love of the subject.

For this new, compact edition The Story of Art has been completely redesigned, giving a fresh perspective to Gombrich's well-loved text. The illustrations, collected together in a separate section towards the back of the book for easy reference, vividly illustrate the lively and engaging narrative and are in colour throughout.

The Story of Art has always been admired for two key qualities: it is a pleasure to read and a pleasure to handle. In these respects the pocket edition is no exception, combining smoothly flowing text with a clear, simple design in a convenient and accessible format. The new edition allows this classic work to continue its triumphant progress for another generation, and to remain the title of first choice for all newcomers to art.

Review Quotes

'a book to slip into your pocket and dip into on a journey. It remains a delight to read.'
The Good Book Guide

'Anyone looking for the most readable survey of the history of art from the [sic] cave paintings to the 20th century should buy the new, beautifully produced pocket edition of The Story of Art, still one of the great classics of art criticism.'
The Independent

'Phaidon, the book's publisher, has managed to give downsizing a good name by printing 'Story of Art' in a pocket edition...the pleasing proportions of this edition are a marvel of compactness.'
The Boston Globe

'There is something seductive about holding all of art history in one hand, and the designers have pulled it off.'
Art and Auction

'... beautifully designed'
Frank Whitford, The Sunday Times

About the Author

Sir Ernst Gombrich's (1909-2001) standing in the world of art and his popularity with experts and a vast general readership alike remain unrivalled. His books have been translated into more than twenty languages and many titles have become classics. Ernst Gombrich was born in Vienna and came to England in 1936. He spent the larger part of his working life at the University of London's Warburg Institute, where he was Director from 1959 until his retirement in 1976. His 'retirement' saw the publication of numerous books, reviews and articles, and the conferring of many international honours, including a knighthood and the Order of Merit. In 1994 the city of Frankfurt awarded him the Goethe Prize. His bestselling book The Story of Art, first published over fifty years ago, continues to delight and inform students of art around the world. Professor Gombrich's books are models of good art-historical writing, and reflect his deep and abiding concern with the standards and values of our cultural heritage.