Provides full coverage of the Christian context and inspiration underlying so much of Western art and architecture
Accessibly written by well-known husband-and-wife team
Comprehensive A-Z coverage of art and architecture influenced by Christianity, in 1,700 cross-referenced entries
Hundreds of specific examples of works or art and where to locate them
Invaluable glossary of architectural terms, and a wide-ranging bibliography
`It is impossible to over praise this book.` Sister Wendy Beckett
`clear, succinct, and enthralling` The Tablet
Part of the market-leading Oxford Paperback Reference series


The Dictionary of Christian Art, now rebranded in the best-selling Oxford Paperback Reference series, is a unique and fascinating exploration of the art and architecture that has been influenced and inspired by biblical stories and Christian history and beliefs. The Dictionary combines general essays on the periods and styles important in the history of Christian art with lots of shorter entries that describe specific works, artists, themes, and visual images, and which give the reader practical guidance on where in Europe to locate the works described.
Among the many features of this dictionary are: detailed essays on periods and styles in art and architecture, including Byzantine, Renaissance, Baroque; general background to the Old and New Testaments, and to Christian tradition and beliefs; forms of art influenced by Christianity, such as illuminated manuscripts, stained glass; artists and architects and their works, for example Fra Angelico, Donatello, Pugin, and many others; and places and buildings, including Assisi, Roma, St Paul`s, the Sistine Chapel. There are also descriptions and explanations of features of Christian churches, significant saints, popes, saints, and rulers, and a glossary of Architectural Terms and detailed bibliography.