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...

The book re-examines the field of Renaissance art history by exploring the art of this era in the light of global connections. It considers the movement of objects, ideas and technologies and its significance for European art and material culture, analysing images through the lens of cultural encounter and conflict.

The book examines the interactions between Britain and India during the Raj in relation to issues of empire and visual culture. It explores the impact of the Anglo-Indian colonial encounter on the arts and aesthetic traditions of both cultures. Presenting a unique overview that ranges from painting, print-making and photography to architecture, exhibitions and Indian crafts, the book considers the art of urban elites and princely states alongside popular arts.

The book highlights the key role of art in forging British colonial ideology. It offers accessible discussions of issues such as...

The Reader Art and its global histories represents an invaluable teaching tool, offering content ranging from academic essays and excerpts, new translations, interviews with curators and artists, to art criticism.

The introduction sets out the state of art history today as it undergoes the profound shift of a 'global turn. Particular focus is given to British India, which represents a shift from the usual attention paid to Orientalism and French art in this period. The sources and debates on this topic have never before been brought together in a satisfactory way and this book will...

Explores the relationship between art and visual culture in Europe and the 'wider world' from the early twentieth century to the contemporary era of globalisation. -- .