These small books are packed with information; the most important facts and background stories, all at a glance. In-depth texts on the most exciting themes in the History of Art by experts and specialists provide the necessary overview for both the expert and the layman.

To this day, Gothic art has left its mark on many European cities. Delicate, soaring spires, interiors flooded with Light, proud knights on stone pedestals and golden Madonnas of intense symbolic power are the characteristic features of this era. Christian beliefs and secular interests shaped in equal measure the artistic expression of a period that was shaken by political and economic crises. Easily understandable texts and a unique gallery of images presenting the architecture, sculpture and painting of the Gothic period bring this era to life and take the reader into the fascinating world of cathedrals, monks and minstrels.

Introduction

Gothic Architecture

Religious Architecture in France

Of Master Masons and Guild Craftsmen - Late Medieval Builders" Workshops

Religious Architecture of the "German Lands"

Religious Architecture in Italy

Religious Architecture in Spain and Portugal

Religious Architecture in England

Religious Architecture in Northern and Eastern Europe

Of Monks, Friars and Laymen - Life in a Medieval Monastery

Secular Architecture in France

Secular architecture of the "German Lands"

Secular Architecture in Italy

Secular Architecture in Spain and Portugal

Secular Architecture in England and Wales

Secular Architecture in the Duchy of Burgundy

Gothic Sculpture

The Portal Sculpture

The Emergence of Free-Standing Sculpture

Ultramarine and Powdered Gold - The Colors of Gothic Architecture and Sculpture

Regional Characteristics of Gothic Sculpture

Gothic Painting

Wall and Panel Painting in Italy

From the Darkling Wood to the Celestial Rose - Dante Alighieri and The Divine Comedy

Painting North of the Alps

The Blessed Virgin and Child - Painters and their Style

Merchants and Craftsmen - Urban Culture in the Middle Ages

Painting at the Dawn of the 15th Century

Stained Glass

Manuscript Illumination

Of MinstreLs, Maidens, and Married Ladies- Courtly Love Poetry in the Middle Ages

Glossary

Further Reading

Index of Places

Index of Names

Picture Credits/Publisher's Information