Greek Art

Description

Nigel Spivey sets the formation of the classical style in its proper historical context. He explores the question of how Greek art was inextricably bound up with the social, religious, philosophical and political factors of the period and explains the art not only in terms of those who commissioned and created it, but also with reference to the archaeology of the places which hosted it.Nigel Spivey, a scholar of Greek, Etruscan and Roman art, lectures in Classical Archaeology at Cambridge University, where he is also a fellow of Emmanuel College. He is the author of Understanding Greek Sculpture and Etruscan Art.

“Spivey supports theories by using quotes from philosophers, weaving tales from the classic epics and providing pertinent historical facts. An admirably concise summary of the art and its context.”—Publishers Weekly

“There are many introductions to Greek art, but there is nothing quite like this. Anyone who wants to find out the historical background to the Greek miracle should start with this book, as indeed should those who think they already know.”—World of Interiors

On the Art & Ideas series

“Art & Ideas has broken new ground in making accessible authoritative views on periods, movements and concepts in art. As a series it represents a real advance in publishing.”—Sir Nicholas Serota, Director, Tate London

“The format is wonderful and offers what had long been missing in academic studies: usable manuals for specific themes or periods… I am definitely not alone in welcoming Art & Ideas as a precious set of teaching tools.”—Joachim Pissarro, Yale University

“Phaidon’s series may prove to be the pick of the crop. It boasts expert but undogmatic texts and a wealth of illustrations.”—The Sunday Telegraph

Additional information