The Social History of Roman Art

The character of Roman art history has changed in recent years. More than ever before, it is concerned with the role of art in ancient society, including the functions that it served and the values and assumptions that it reflects. At the same time, images have become centrally important to the study of ancient history in general. This book offers a, critical introduction to Roman art against the background of these developments. Focusing on selected examples and themes, it sets the images in context, explains how they have been interpreted, and explodes some of the modern myths that surround them. It also explores some of the problems and contradictions that we face when we try to deal with ancient art in this manner. From wall-paintings to statues, from coins to the gravestones, this is a lucid and often provocative appraisal of the world of Roman images.

Author: Peter Stewart
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 07/07/2008
Pages: 218
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.65lbs
Size: 8.90h x 5.90w x 0.60d
ISBN: 9780521016599

About the Author
Stewart, Peter: - Peter Stewart is Senior Lecturer in Classical Art and its Heritage at the Courtauld Institute of Art, London. His previous publications include Statues in Roman Society: Representation and Response (2003) and Roman Art (2004).