Janson's History of Art: The Western Tradition

Book Description

This four-part volume uses an exceptional art program–with sumptuous color pictures–to introduce readers to a succession of art styles from prehistoric times and ancient Egypt, to the vast world of Western painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, and the minor arts. Elegantly written, it contains a balanced and interesting narrative that increases ones ability to understand art. Parts I and II cover The Ancient World and The Middle Ages, with a look at prehistoric; Egyptian; ancient near eastern; Aegean; Greek; Etruscan; Roman; early Christian, Byzantine, and Medieval; Romanesque; and Gothic art. Part III looks at the Renaissance through the Rococo–with a focus on the early and high renaissance in Italy; mannerism and other trends; âLate Gothicâ painting, sculpture, and the graphic arts; and the Baroque in Italy, Spain, Flanders, Holland, France and England. Part IV is a treatment on the modern world, including Neoclassicism and Romanticism; Realism and Impressionism; Post-impressionism, Symbolism, and Art Nouveau; Twentieth-Century painting, sculpture, architecture, and photography; and Postmodernism. For those who appreciate art as individual works, rather than a mere collection of data.

Customer Reviews:

Historical context makes art more meaningful.......2007-08-13

This book is incredibly comprehensive and covers all aspects of art in different cultures, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and burial sites. It is remarkably detailed (almost too much so), and has many great pictures.

The most distinctive aspect of this book is the primary sources it includes that explain the historical context of artworks. For example, there are numerous letters (translated, of course) from Italian artists in the Renaissance to their clients. Another text includes excerpts from the law code of Hammurabi, to accompany the sculptural piece on which it was originally engraved.

Yayy!!!.......2007-06-14

An excellent base for an art student to build upon; clear, informative, visual, and historical. Supplements and sources such as Wikipedia and encyclopedias and history texts will show how intertwined art is with politics and religions in depth where the book skims over.
A wonderful book, and covers some Eastern Art despite the focus title on the West. Chapters are organized and they get the point across; lovely descriptions of photographs that are present in the book, so you really get to study the subject and with the assistance of the text, see the inner beauty in the architecture.
What I found lacking was the mention of the Golden Ratio, and in fact, any mathematics whatsoever. As mathematics is very important to ancient-modern art, I found it rather confusing. However, as said before, an excellent base.
Very intriguing and not in the least boring or dry, Janson's History of Art is a prime choice coupled with supplementary books. If you're interested in overall art history, this is the one to go with...
Have fun!!!

a standard.......2006-07-23

This is one of the standard history of art textbooks. Of course it includes color prints of all the most famous art of the Western tradition, as well as numerous photographs and floorplans of famous architecture. It has a little coverage of Islamic art, but that is a topic that deserves better than it can be given in a textbook on the Western tradition. Painting, architecture and sculpture are clearly the focus, but photography and decor each get a nod. Other forms of art--from gardening to appliance design--although interesting, evidently cannot fit in this space.

The text is adequate: a little better than standard textbook composition, less dull, perhaps a touch less condescending, and of course perfectly informative.

Issues in technique, interpretation and so on are well-introduced.

If you, like me, are not a student but an adult just curious about art, this is a fine choice. I've also enjoyed work by Robert Hughes ("The Shock of the New," which I strongly recommend, and "American Visions"), Andre Malraux ("The Voices of Silence") and David Morgan ("The Sacred Gaze").

(I'm not widely read in this field by any means: those are the only books I've read about Western art history! So there could be various better books out there. But still, this textbook has been very useful to me, helping me fill out my knowledge in many areas.)

History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Average customer rating:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers
Pants on fire?
Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed.
Very Interesting
History as Science Fiction

History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
Anatoly Fomenko
Manufacturer: Mithec
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 2913621058

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Frank Stitt's Southern Table: Recipes and Gracious Traditions from Highlands Bar and Grill

Average customer rating:

Amazing cookbook
Southern Splender on a Plate
Review
A Masterpiece - The Crown Jewel of my Cookbook library
Very colorful, informative & complete!

Frank Stitt's Southern Table: Recipes and Gracious Traditions from Highlands Bar and Grill
Frank Stitt , Pat Conroy , and Christopher Hirscheimer
Manufacturer: Artisan
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1579652468

Book Description

R. W. Apple, Jr., of The New York Times credits third-generation Alabamian Frank Stitt with turning Birmingham into a "sophisticated, easygoing showplace of enticing, southern-accented cooking." His southern peers think his cooking may have a more profound sense of place than any of theirs. His food is rustic and homey, but sophisticated in method.

Now, Alabama's favorite son has written a long-awaited cookbook that features his enticing Provençal-influenced southern food. More than 150 recipes range from the traditional--Spicy Green Tomato and Peach Relish, Spoonbread, and Pickled Shrimp--to the inspired--Slow-Roasted Black Grouper with Ham and Pumpkin Pirlau and Pork Loin with Corn Pudding and Grilled Eggplant. Desserts such as Bourbon Panna Cotta and Sweet Potato Tart with Coconut Crust and Pecan Streusel elevate the best of the South for cooks everywhere.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing cookbook.......2007-08-20

I'm just a regular mom who likes to plunk down with a really good cookbook and try new gourmet recipes to amaze and delight my family. Lets just say that my 3 year old toddler and husband look forward to dinner every night that I pull out Frank Stitt's cookbook. Some recipes make me crazy, especially when I have to flip through 3 different pages to get various related recipes such as sauces, but oh what heavenly delight if you persevere and see the recipe through to completion. I can't say enough good things about this book - makes one appreciate the time, effort and loving care that is evident in the recipes. The sauce gribiche is worth the price of admission. The book feels like an old friend, calling me every few days to try another recipe. What a fantastic chef. This cookbook rivals my other beloved and tattered cookbook " The French Recipe cookbook" by Clements and Wolf-Cohen. You will NOT be disappointed if you get this book. 5 star rating all the way.

Southern Splender on a Plate.......2007-01-31

Wow!! This cookbook rocks. I've recently bought over a dozen Southern cooking cookbooks and this is the BEST hands down. Frank Stitt's recipes are inspiring. No longer does Southern Food need to be somewhat bland and heavy. I'm ordering my Gourmet Cook daughter a copy for her birthday in a couple of weeks. I know she'll love it.

Review.......2007-01-30

I have this cookbook, ordered another for a friend and it was in perfect condition, as stated.

A Masterpiece - The Crown Jewel of my Cookbook library.......2006-11-15

Frank Stitt's Southern Table is truly a masterpiece. I am a Southerner and was raised on the wonderful flavors that form the recipes in this book. I love that Stitt showcases humble vegetables that can be found at any Southern farmer's market and presents them in impeccable fashion. His philosophy on using the freshest, in-season ingredients is wonderful advice for all cooks. I also keep this book on my coffee-table and I often read his charming writings on Southern food and the culture that surrounds cooking and eating in the South. I recommend this cookbook above all others. My family has adored everything I have made from this cookbook. I recommend the Lowcountry Red Rice, Pimento Cheese, All the cookie recipes, Spiced Pecans, and the fabulous section on perfectly mixed cocktails. This cookbook has got me planning a trip to Birmingham for the sole purpose of eating at the Highlands Bar and Grille.

Very colorful, informative & complete!.......2006-11-14

This is a very thick book on the upscale restaurant Bottega in The Highlands area of Birmingham, Alabama. Soon I intend on actually visiting the restaurant, but until then, this book keeps me in tune with the restaurant. I can make their food at home as well as get a clear idea of the environment, cuisine and patrons who visit.

Michael Jackson's Beer Companion: The World's Great Beer Styles, Gastronomy, and Traditions

Average customer rating:

Great info on most beer styles
Just what America needs: Beer Education
Essential
Great overview of beer styles
The Beer Snob's Bible

Michael Jackson's Beer Companion: The World's Great Beer Styles, Gastronomy, and Traditions
Michael Jackson
Manufacturer: Running Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1561382884

Customer Reviews:

Great info on most beer styles.......2005-09-13

As a homebrewer, I found this book to be very helpful in creating recipes for various styles of beer. He goes into good detail about them and provides descriptions of a few primary examples of styles. If I have any criticism it would be that I would have done away with the "cooking with beer" articles at the end of the book (you can find better and more comprehensive info elsewhere) and instead added more info about obscure beer styles such as American Stock Ale, Baltic Porter, Kellerbier, Finnish Sahti, Kentucky Common Beer, etc.

Just what America needs: Beer Education.......2003-11-20

Author Michael Jackson is probably my favorite beer writer and critic. He has traveled all over America and the world, attending events, visiting breweries, and tasting beer. He has extensive knowledge on the subject of beer and he shares that knowledge in this book.

Jackson writes this book in a very simple, easy to understand manner. He doesn't use long words that require the use of a dictionary to understand. He keeps it simple while he educates the reader sbout the subject of beer. He begins by talking about the history of the world's greatest beverage, from the ancient days when beer was discovered all the way to the present day and the resurgence of craft- brewing. He talks about the various ingredients used in beer and explains how best to match beer with food. The bulk of the book covers each individual style of beer, with facts, trivia, and full- color photographs of beer labels, breweries, and other beer- related things.

Speaking of the photography, I found that it really adds to the enjoyment and understanding of the subject matter. It would not be very exciting to read a book about beer that contained nothing but text. The pictures really make a difference with this type of book. They keep the reader entertained and informed about different aspects of beer and the brewing industry.

Overall, this is one of the best books on beer I have ever read. Grab a copy and see for yourself how much there is to know and love about the greatest beverage known to man- beer!

Essential.......2002-02-07

Michael Jackson has long been considered one of (if not the) world's foremost experts on beer (so much so that those who love beer think of this Michael long before the putative Pop King Michael). And this book only adds to that well-deserved reputation.

Jackson's "Beer Companion" is loaded with color photos of many beer styles, labels, breweries, and watering holes and gives a decent history of the various brewing styles and tastes (very fascinating!). Mr. Jackson provides advice for what beers go with what foods (and it does matter) and suggests some good drinking establishments (and breweries) to visit if you're a world traveler. A good drinking companion indeed. Unfortunately, the book is somewhat large (and annoying to travel with) so you may be better off reading it first, taking some notes, and bringing the (also essential) Pocket Beer Guide with you instead. Enjoy.

Great overview of beer styles.......2000-09-15

Most of Jackson's other books are organized by region, shopping guides country-by-country. What makes this book particular useful is is attention to various beerstyles, with history and definition for each, along with listings of the classic examples. It's also a gorgeous book, with mouth-watering photos of beer and the geography of beer.

On another note, it's interesting that the only "reviews" that dismiss Jackson as a hack are unsigned. No e-mail addresses, just "a reader". Makes you wonder, doesn't it?

--Jeff Frane

The Beer Snob's Bible.......2000-06-27

If you love beer, and I mean LOVE beer, then this book is a great read. Its for anyone who knows that beer is far more than something to get drunk with, something more than just an after work relaxer, but instead a fine drink that, much like wine, is to be enjoyed for it's flavor, many different styles, and history. It can be dry and boring at times, but when you're looking for information on the world's best beers and traditions in style and flavor, this book is quite handy. It's interesting to say the least, and certainly informs the reader on quite a large bounty on different beer throught the world. Get it, but don't expect too much.

Book Description

What makes fashionistas willing to pay a small fortune for a particular designer accessory -- a luxe handbag, for example? Why is it that people all over the world share the conviction that a special occasion only becomes really special when a champagne cork pops -- and even more special when that cork comes from a bottle of Dom Pérignon? Why are diamonds the status symbol gemstone, instantly signifying wealth, power, and even emotional commitment?

One of the foremost authorities on seventeenth-century French culture provides the answer to these and other fascinating questions in her account of how, at one glittering moment in history, the French under Louis XIV set the standards of sophistication, style, and glamour that still rule our lives today.

Joan DeJean explains how a handsome and charismatic young king with a great sense of style and an even greater sense of history decided to make both himself and his country legendary. When the reign of Louis XIV began, his nation had no particular association with elegance, yet by its end, the French had become accepted all over the world as the arbiters in matters of taste and style and had established a dominance in the luxury trade that continues to this day. DeJean takes us back to the birth of haute cuisine, the first appearance of celebrity hairdressers, chic cafes, nightlife, and fashion in elegant dress that extended well beyond the limited confines of court circles. And Paris was the magical center -- the destination of travelers all across Europe.

As the author observes, without the Sun King's program for redefining France as the land of luxury and glamour, there might never have been a Stork Club, a Bergdorf Goodman, a Chez Panisse, or a Cristophe of Beverly Hills -- and President Clinton would never have dreamed of holding Air Force One on the tarmac of LAX for an hour while Cristophe worked his styling genius on the president's hair.

Written with wit, dash, and élan by an author who knows this astonishing true story better than virtually anyone, The Essence of Style will delight fans of history and everybody who wonders about the elusive definition of good taste.

Customer Reviews:

The Origin Of Our Modern Concept Of Style.......2007-06-04

This is not really a book, but more of a collection of essays examining the origin of various modern concepts of style: hair, culture, fashion, marketing/tourism, footwear, fine dining, coffee, champagne, diamonds, mirrors, nightlife, umbrellas, shopping, perfumes, and entertaining.

As a scholar of French history and culture, the unifying theme of Joan DeJean's work is that the origins of these parts of our modern society came in the reign of Loius XIV of France, and fairly amazing are largly unchanged since their implementation.

By this I mean not the specifics of style, but in the way they function in the greater culture.

DeJean speaks well to the technology being developed at the time as well as the reasons that the late 1600's were the first time these aspects of life could be mass consumed, instead of say, the 1200's.

Frivolous.......2007-05-24

I wasted an hour searching for something of substantive interest in this work. It was time spent in vain. A frivolous book about frivolous things.

A good read, but lacks depth.......2007-05-15

Topic Selection: B+ Although the book may seem a little all over the place to some, focusing on such diverse aspects of culture as food, clothing, champagne, perfume, parties, and even umbrellas, DeJean does a good job of relating the different parts of the book to one another. She ties them all to a very specific period of history and especially to Louis XIV.

Scholarship: C- DeJean seems to rely fairly heavily on a rather small number of sources, despite the fact that the total number of sources is pretty good. Also, at least some footnotes would help the book.

Readability: A- This book was obviously written to be consumed by a general audience. DeJean's style is very easy to read, although some of the chapters seem repetitive, as she often comes to the same conclusion.

Impartiality: C I detected a definite "France is great" tone to this book that could sometimes be a little distracting. One also gets the impression that DeJean thinks that the move towards rapidly changing fashions was inevitably a good thing, for which she does not give a reason. She was not biased in an overbearing way, but there is definitely a bias there.

Overall: B- I really enjoyed the book and for beginners to this area of history, I think it is ideal. You learn a lot of those little things that you always wondered about, such as where the concept of dessert comes from. DeJean's style is readable and she is obviously passionate about the subject. Serious scholars should stay away, as the book does not always adequately cite it's sources and does not prove its argument as adequately as it could.

Vive La France!.......2006-06-01

Is not the words "Joie de Vivre" French for joy of life? Qui!

The French work to live while North Americans live to work. Life is short and no wonder Hemingway said that those who know Paris never forget it.

An interesting take on the Gaulle of living.

fluff history.......2006-03-03

Some more rigorous historical analysis would have turned this 'lite' read into something worthwhile. The crude translations of 17th-century France into modern-day America, irrespective of different economic systems and radically discrete cultures, turn what could have been an inspired thesis into the kind of chatter you'd expect to hear from grandma.

Average customer rating:

Useful survey of Western art

History of Art: The Western Tradition
H. W. Janson , and Anthony F. Janson
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0131826220

Customer Reviews:

Useful survey of Western art.......2006-01-13

In the introduction to this edition, Anthony Janson (whose father, H.W. Janson, still has top billing for the volume) talks about the long tradition he and his father have had toward this volume and the larger work that carries the same name. It has been a standard in Western art education for decades, and the revisions periodically placed serve to bring new interpretations, perspectives and finds into the mix of history.

Prior to diving into the depths of art, Janson provides a primer - art history is a relatively new discipline, and often studied by historians and others with interest but relatively little training in artistic areas themselves. This book is about the visual arts (those of drama, music, etc. are not included here, but architecture is to some degree); Janson gives a brief survey of key concepts that are critical to understanding the mediums (artists, Janson states, prefer to use the plural of medium as mediums rather than media). Geometric and visual appreciation concepts are introduced, as are philosophical/aesthetic ideas.

The majority of the text is divided into four broad sections: The Ancient World, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance through the Rococo, and the Modern World. This is a book that really a survey or history of Western art - it does have a brief section at the beginning of the Ancient World on cave art and neolithic art in North America, but apart from this never wanders outside the main courses of Western art even in the modern period. As an introductory text, this is not surprising - many of the values and concepts of art in non-Western cultures require more explanation for adequate aesthetic appreciation of their art than an introductory survey course could cover. Still, it is a deficit worthy of note for those who are looking for a more comprehensive volume.

The Ancient World covers art of Egypt, the Fertile Crescent and Persia, Aegean/Greek art, Etruscan art, and Roman art. The section on the Middle Ages begins primarily with the rise of Christendom as the dominant political power - this includes Byzantine art, early Medieval art (Carolingian and Ottonian times), Romanesque, and the ascendancy of the Gothic style, including the great Abbey of St-Denis. The Renaissance focusses early on Italy, but also explores the Renaissance influences in Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, France, and England. The Modern Period is the most diverse, with movements such as Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Art Nouveau and other schools that had a greater tendency to cross national boundaries. The twentieth century brought about a great explosion of artistic expressions, in architecture, sculpture, painting and photography, each of which get a chapter. While the fourth section begins with a discussion of modernism, it ends with the discussion of post-modernism, a period of transition.

The colour reproductions throughout are stunning, and the use of black-and-white images to highlight details is also useful. Two-thirds of the 600 illustrations are in colour. The photographs showing architectural styles are interesting, far from being boring 'sample' shots. The text is engaging and informative, achieving a good balance between the artistic, the philosophical and the historical. There are maps, chronological tables, a glossary of terms, suggestions for further readings arranged topically, and a very useful index (always a plus for students and scholars).

Joie de Vivre: Simple French Style for Everyday Living

Average customer rating:

It doesn't have to apologize for idealism
A favourite now and always
Fun and Relaxing Reading
Loved the Book
The Perfect Seller!

Joie de Vivre: Simple French Style for Everyday Living
Robert Arbor , and Katherine Whiteside
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0743223535

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In Joie de Vivre, Robert Arbor, a Frenchman transplanted to New York City, explains the French philosophy on life and argues for its adoption by stressed Americans. In a funny way, this is sort of a self-help book for people who admire the French lifestyle, and for those who believe that good food is the secret to a happy life. The premise of the book is that you will find "domestic happiness" when you learn to enjoy the most mundane details of your everyday life: "It's about making time for family, growing some vegetables in your garden, chatting with the butcher, and cooking for your family and friends." Quality of life, explains Arbor, is only improved when your pillowcases smell like lavender, and you make your own hot chocolate.

Although there are 50 recipes dispersed throughout the book, Joie de Vivre is not a cookbook. Most of the recipes are for dishes like A Really Good Fried Egg, mayonnaise, and café au lait, but there are interesting as well, such as Carrot Râpée, Beet Vinaigrette, and Fish in Papillotte. The recipes are included more as a way to better describe the French experience and to show how easy it is to adopt as a way of life; a method which works particularly well for those of us who know that the best way to understand and appreciate a foreign culture is through its food. --Leora Y. Bloom

Book Description

When it comes to making the most of life, nobody does it better than the French. Now, with Joie de Vivre: Simple French Style for Everyday Living, an inspired fusion of art, style, and easy-to-implement ideas, anyone can feel like they spent a weekend in the French countryside, no matter where they live.

Renowned restaurateur Robert Arbor puts a refreshing emphasis on simplicity and accessibility, explaining the rituals and traditions that comprise a typical French day. Featuring dozens of simple, everyday recipes, Joie de Vivre captures the family meals, market trips, and charming domestic settings that make the French way of life so plea- surable. In eight chapters, illustrated with 85 full-color and black-and-white photographs, Arbor details how you, too, can achieve the simplicity and relaxing life the French treasure.

Le Matin (The Morning) lays out the elements of a relaxing breakfast (as well as the secret to great coffee), and Le Potager (The Garden) describes the pleasures and rewards of growing your own own vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Le Marché (The Market) and Le Déjeuner (Lunchtime) follow Arbor to the market, the butcher, and the baker before serving up a trove of delicious ideas for light lunches and snacks. Le Dîner (Supper) outlines strategies for crafting cozy family dinners; creating enchanting dinner parties of all sizes; and preparing fun, simple meals for children.

Arbor's memories and experiences of growing up in France and his flair for casual elegance can't help but inspire the chef and decorator in everyone.

Sidebars sprinkled throughout the book offer tips and insights on how to make the perfect cup of hot chocolate, a French perspective on truffles and foie gras, the French and their love of chocolate, and why French butter tastes so good.

Joie de Vivre is a lavishly illustrated guide to the French style of living that will show you how to bring a little joie to your life.

Customer Reviews:

It doesn't have to apologize for idealism.......2007-05-24

I bought this book, on the recommendation of Diane F. Von Behren and Lee Mellott, two reviewers that I've begun to really trust here on Amazon. I was delighted to find, that typical of the other books I've bought on their say so, this one too is a joy to read and own.

It is idealistic. That IS the point.

This is a book ABOUT slowing down, thinking thru the day, not rushing from 7 am into eternity with one's head down, speeding thru an ever increasing load of chores till you drop dead wondering what life was all about.

I think this whole French/North American contrast genre of books, whether it's French women not getting fat or the Entre Nous book are all about re thinking an approach to life.

A little wake up call to examine what is important.

There are plenty of things I love about being a Canadian that make me very different from the French in France, or the American in America and that I prefer to hang onto. Some things won't change. They work for me.

But not because I hit the default button and just am Canadian because I was born here, and never thought about changing anything about me.

I think one of the joys of life is changing those things we don't like to stuff we do like.

Taking a broad cultural over view of the French way of life, and comparing it to the American (or British/Canadian/Australian etc) way makes it easy to spot the areas where we can borrow a better way and add it into our lives.

Enriching my life with some excellent recipes, and a conscious re thinking of life patterns (thru my day, my year or how I run my life) is the value in this book.

It is NOT a critique of America, rather it is an explanation of one mans view of life as he lives it, complete with recipes, side notes, cultural observations and the like.

IT is the reader who is allowed to then observe, contrast, and critique their own life and decide whether or not doing things differently would be a worthwhile change, something that could add to one's joie de vivre.

In my case it has. I'm stopping and enjoying life more as a result. My life is better, and yes, I have a little more joie de vivre as a result of this book.

I think it is a wonderful addition to my library and plan to keep it.

A favourite now and always.......2007-03-22

I purchased this book from Amazon more than 2 years ago. I find myself time and time again turning to Joie de Vivre for recipes, dinner party ideas and general inspiration. It is so wonderful! So stylish, yet so warm, cozy and inviting. Robert Arbor takes the 'gently gently' approach with his readers - he knows we're all stressed, overworked and unwilling victims of a processed food culture. He knows that we want to slow things down a little, enjoy life more. He knows that we want to have less mind numbing TV and mass-media in our lives (and MUCH less exposure to this ridiculous celebrity worship going on right now) and more quality interaction with friends and family. Monsieur Arbor completely understands that we don't all live in gorgeous French farmhouses or bohemian Parisian maisons (he is a New Yorker for much of the year)and he encourages readers from all walks of life to basically 'get a life'. I love it and I recommend this book to all.

Fun and Relaxing Reading.......2007-01-19

I borrowed this book from my library and liked it so much that I bought it on Amazon. Mr. Arbor's writing is very enjoyable and takes you back to a simpler form of eating; reminding you to relish the purchase and preparation of your food as well as the end result!

Loved the Book.......2007-01-09

My husband purchased this book for me when I was feeling depressed due to having to come home after our wonderful European vacation. Joie de Vivre helped to keep me immersed in the beautiful French culture a little longer. The author brings the reader intimately into his life, sharing details concerning the French culture that I would not otherwise have known, even having spent weeks in France. The author, Arbor, is very gentle, the famous French snobbery (which we never encountered on our vacation), is completely absent. The recipes are just icing on the cake. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this charming book.

The Perfect Seller!.......2007-01-03

Received book in flawless condition, and got it FAST! Highly recommend this seller.

World Music: Traditions and Transformations

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World Music: Traditions and Transformations
Michael B. Bakan
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0072415665

Book Description

From cha cha chá to jeliya and Hindustani raga to hip-hop gamelan, this exciting new text takes students on a journey through diverse musical cultures and traditions of the world. With a clear and accessible presentation style and lively and engaging writing, it is an ideal introduction to world music for non-music and music majors alike.

Principles of Color: A Review of Past Traditions and Modern Theories of Color Harmony

Average customer rating:

A fascinating history and theory of the use of color in art

Principles of Color: A Review of Past Traditions and Modern Theories of Color Harmony
Faber Birren
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Using Color | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0887401031

Book Description

An elementary work on color, dealing with traditional principles of harmony as well as advanced principles derived from modern studies of the psychology of human color perception. Mr. Birren tells a well-organized story of how to achieve harmony with color, beginning with a chapter on color circles and proceeding to a straightforward discussion of traditional principles of color harmony and how they were accepted in the past.

Customer Reviews:

A fascinating history and theory of the use of color in art.......2001-08-28

Birren has thoroughly researched the use of color in art and the theories of how color and its combinations work. Here you can find how color is used in diverse applications from old masterpieces to optical art, and learn how to combine colors to achieve luster, luminosity, etc. Interesting theory with practical applications.

Music in Latin American Culture: Regional Traditions

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Music in Latin American Culture

Music in Latin American Culture: Regional Traditions
John M. Schechter
Manufacturer: Schirmer
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

History & Criticism | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Entertainment | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

Nonfiction | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0028647505

Book Description

Music in Latin American Culture: Regional Traditions presents chapters that focus on specific musical cultures including: Mexico, Central American, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Peru and more. Each chapter is written by an expert in the field and includes specific examples from the contributor's fieldwork.

Customer Reviews:

Music in Latin American Culture.......2000-07-02

There has long been a need for a scholarly, comprehensive, affordable english language text addressing Latin American music. "Music in Latin American Culture Regional Traditions" provides a schoarly look at the diverse musical cultures of Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Each chapter is written by an expert in the field who has first hand experiences with the culture they are discussing. The text covers music rituals, instrument manufacturing, improvisation techniques and culural/social history of the topic under discussion. The bibliography/discography at the end of each chapter is extensive. This text is geared towards the undergraduate student and is similar in context to Jeff Todd Titon's "Worlds of Music: An Introduction to the Music of the World's Peoples" by the same publisher. My only criticism of the book that the Cuban and Puerto Rican contributions to Latin American Music are not covered as thoroughly as they deserve. I believe that although each is mentioned in the text that they, too, deserve an entired chapter in the text.....maybe in the next edition. With the exception of this perceived oversight, the "Music in Latin American Culture Regional Traditions" is an excellent book, filling a much needed gap in scholarly writing on Latin American Music and is a wonderful introduction for those seeking to study the musics of Latin America.

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