Since its first publication this book has been hailed as the most comprehensive history of art ever published in a single volume. Presenting art history as an essential part of the development of humankind, it offers an authoritative, balanced and enlightening account, ranging from a statuette carved in central Europe some 30,000 years ago to the digital, video and installation art of the new millennium. The volume covers painting, mosaic, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, architecture and photography. Textiles, coins, pottery, enamels, gold and silver are also included. The scope is international, encompassing the arts of Asia, Africa and Oceania as well as Europe and the Americas.

This Revised Seventh Edition expands the original coverage by embracing new developments in archaeology and art historical research, and in particular contemporary art historian Michael Archer has greatly expanded the authors' discussion of the art world into the 21st century, providing a new perspective on the latest developments shaping our cultural history.

The insight, elegance and fluency that the authors bring to their text are complemented by 1459 superb illustrations, many of which are now in colour.