The Anthropology of Art

3.73 ( 11 Ratings by Goodreads)
The Anthropology of Art

The Anthropology of Art

3.73 (11 Ratings by Goodreads)
paperback
Published: 30 August, 1991
Standard worldwide delivery by Thu, July 23 - Mon, August 3
Order within 0
Condition: NEW
$51.40
Price includes shipping
Available 20+ in stock
- +
FREE Returns within 30 days

Description

Robert Layton provides an authoritative introduction to the richness and diversity of art forms in non-Western societies. He addresses the problems of aesthetic appreciation across cultures, the varied uses of art, and the fundamental problem of what constitutes 'art' in societies varying from the traditional kingdoms of West Africa, with their specialist craftsmen using precious metals, to Australian hunter-gatherers, with their sand paintings and body decoration. Art forms discussed include bark, sand and rock painting, ivory bone and wood carving, brass casting, masks, and house and body decoration. To understand the meaning of these diverse productions demands an understanding of cultural contexts, Layton relates particular art productions to rituals, myths and power relations. He also discusses and illustrates perspectives on art within anthropological and sociological theory. This is a revised version of a book first published in 1981 and is widely used in courses for archaeologists, anthropologists and art historians.
See more

More Details

Type Book
ISBN13 9780521368940
ISBN10 0521368944
Number Of Pages 276
Item Weight 445 g
Product Dimensions 153 x 229 x 15 mm
Publisher / Reseller Cambridge University Press
Format paperback
Edition 2nd Revised edition
See More +

Media Reviews

'… a sparkling introduction for anyone wishing to understand something of the art of exotic societies and the contribution made by anthropology to the study of it.' The Times Literary Supplement
'… Layton offers a lively and testable thesis about the social uses of art. His reflections could easily become the inspiration for further cross-cultural study.' American Anthropologist
'In this exceptionally well researched volume, Layton presents a nearly exhaustive history of rock art studies as developed and practiced in Australia.' Paul Faulstich, Pitzer College
'Layton's 'new synthesis' is a valuable reference work on rock art and cultural studies. It is important reading for scholars … with an interest in Australian Aboriginal expressive culture.' Paul Faulstich, Pitzer College

Show more