cover image Art: A Field Guide

Art: A Field Guide

Robert Cumming. Alfred A. Knopf, $27.5 (480pp) ISBN 978-0-375-41312-4

For a less site-specific and more monetarily focused tour of art history, Art: A Field Guide covers more 770 painters in 700 full-color illustrations, noting how many of their works sold between 2001 and 2000 (with figures on lowest and high prices achieved), along with the highest price paid at auction prior to December 31, 2000 or the record price. Robert Cumming, formerly of London's Tate Gallery and Christie's auction house, is now an independent writer and curator. He explains key forms, techniques, movements and styles, and puts his eye to serious yet entertaining use in this romp through the trade. Readers addicted to Antiques Roadshow will get a similar thrill, with or without the cash to put the book to use. (Nov. 18)