Take a tour through the history of painting from the Early Renaissance to modern day in this richly illustrated hardback guide, filled with spectacular full-colour artwork.

Great artists change the way we look at the world. From Manet to Goya, and Rothko to Caravaggio, this comprehensive guide traces the development of artistic styles and the spot connections between them. Discover the major movements in western painting, and the life and times of the influential artists whose experimentation paved the way.

• Suitable for everybody, from the casual reader to students of art history

• A clear chronological structure allows the reader to see each movement in its historical context and to appreciate the patterns that emerge

• A comprehensive overview of painting, from the sacred beauty of Giotto's The Raising of Lazarus to Gerhard Richter and Luc Tuymans

• Includes an essay on the development of painting techniques throughout the ages

• Features more than 150 beautiful reproductions

With feature boxes, timelines and examples throughout this is an ideal introduction for students, artists and enthusiasts looking to refresh their knowledge of the story of western art.