The Story of Christian Art : From the Dawn of Time to the Present

With stunning reproductions of major artworks on nearly every page, this absorbing history is for art lovers of all religious backgrounds who want to gain a broader and deeper understanding of the influence of Christianity on Western art and culture.

With stunning reproductions of major artworks on nearly every page, this is a book that both informs the mind and nourishes the soul. From the haunting images in the catacombs to the sacred halls of Gothic cathedrals and the bustling streets of Renaissance Europe, The Story of Christian Art takes you on a journey through more than two millennia of artistic inspiration and achievement. With every turn of the page, you are transported through the changing artistic, historical and religious contexts surrounding each masterpiece, gaining a better sense of the profound spiritual convictions that were the driving force behind each stroke of the brush or cut of the chisel. Whatever your religious background may be, The Story of Christian Art offers a deeper and richer understanding of the cultural climate and influences behind the glories of Western art. It also offers valuable insights into the significance of key Christian elements within the artworks, encouraging a more nuanced and rewarding appreciation of each one. The book ends by exploring the present and future of Christian art. Who are the contemporary Christian artists and is there still a role for them in an increasingly secular society?