INTRODUCTION TO ART HISTORY

Art History

An academic discipline focused on the reconstruction of the social, cultural, and economic contexts of artworks.

Formal Analysis

Analyzing the visual qualities of a work of art to uncover its meaning based on the artistic decisions made.

Contextual Analysis

Examining the broader context surrounding a work of art, including cultural, social, religious, and economic factors affecting its production and reception.

The Nature of Art Historical Inquiry

Art historians analyze art through formal and contextual analyses, integrating various contexts to understand artworks.

Visual Culture

A broader view in art history encompassing various visual materials, including those once deemed 'craft,' advertisements, and design.

Patronage

The support given by patrons to artists, influencing the creation and meaning of artworks.

Cultural Context

The circumstances surrounding the creation of a work of art, influencing its interpretation and value.

Historical Bias

The perspective that every history reflects certain biases, impacting how art history is recorded and understood.

Feminist Art History

An approach that critiques traditional art history for focusing primarily on male artists and patrons, advocating for a broader, more inclusive perspective.

Giorgio Vasari

A Renaissance artist and author known for 'The Lives of the Artists,' analyzing the lives and works of significant Italian artists.