European Art and the Wider World 1350-1550

The Renaissance has been idealised as a high point in history, as a revival of classical antiquity which brought about technological advances and a flourishing of the arts. Yet recent literature on Renaissance globalism has revealed a very different picture of this era, one which is more complex and inter-connected. New scholarship has highlighted the contributions made by non-Western cultures to what is understood as a European 'Renaissance', and exposed the less-than-heroic side of the beginnings of European expansion into the world during this era.

Examining art and visual culture through a series of accessible and thought-provoking case studies, this book provides insights into Europe's relationship with Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East in the 'age of exploration'. Written with the student's perspective in mind, it introduces theoretical topics in a clear and accessible way, foregrounding the close examination of compelling visual examples. Beginning with the Portuguese venture into Morocco in 1415, it looks at art history through the framework of the changes which occurred as Europe acquired new territory and trading advantages, as well as the long-term history of cultural exchange between Europe and the wider world in preceding centuries.

This book will be an exciting and compelling intellectual experience for students, revisiting canonical works, as well as introducing a variety of objects and artefacts that have traditionally been left out of the canon. Aimed at undergraduate and postgraduate art history students, this beautifully illustrated volume will also attract readers with an interest in the history of art. These books should also appeal to the wider market of those interested in globalisation and its relationship with visual culture.

Kathleen Christian is Lecturer in Art History at The Open University

Leah Clark is Lecturer in Art History at The Open University