A reference book., 19. Oktober 1999

This book is concise, even though fairly comprehensive. It gives beginers in this field the necessary basis and never gets boring. One reads and learns, and enjoys the many pictures in the book. Gombrich is simple, clear, and above all, he loves the master pieces he introduces. He makes one discover the major periods, the major movements and also the life of the major Masters.

It is as instructing as a History book, and as captivating as a Novel: the Story of Art is definitely a good title!

The first book one should have on the subject.

       Although inspiring, does it stimulate questions?, 10. September 1999

One of Gombrich's many virtues is his ability to convey in clear, yet rich prose his depth of understanding and love of art. However, as I rethink my art history survey offerings I feel a need to break away from texts that have such a strong authorial viewpoint as this one. I'd prefer a text that presents a number of interpretations of a single work, such as the one by Laurie Schneider Adams, or a more neutral tone, as in the survey by Stokstad. It is essential that students learn to question what they read. There is a long tradition for art history texts to come across as "Bibles." The prose is so eloquent, and the cultural mastery so impressive that many students leave a course believing that they've learned the "truth" about certain artists, rather than cultivated opinions based upon clusters of available information.

       The BEST History of Art Ever Written!!!!, 19. Juli 1999

Whenever people mention art or art history, I think back to my Humanities classes at Michigan State. Gombrich's "The Story of Art" was a delighful text. Thorough, yet written in a way that was understandable to someone with very little exposure to art and all the nuances. "The Story of Art" makes the "Study" of art enjoyable. I have often regretted re-selling my text back to the book store since it would have made a wonderful reference. How delighted I am to find this book to still be available!!!

       This book is A-1!!!!!!, 12. Mai 1999

When it comes to art, I am an idiot. But this book is the perfect amount of basics, insights, and neat pictures that it is highly informative, yet also highly entertaining. This combination is rare, especially in any book that is the size of a textbook. I cannot stress enough how much this book will help you understand the concepts and theories behind such words as "Renaissance", "Impressionism" and other words you have heard but might not have really understood.

Buy this book, it is worth every penny and more.

       THE GREATEST INTRO TO ART IMAGINABLE, 11. Januar 1999

There are many good books on art. There are some great ones. And then there are all-time classics. "The Story of Art" belongs to the third category.