Book excerpt: "A classic on the functions, styles and structure of the major visual art forms, this well-received text is reputed to have the best treatment available on the theory and practice of art criticism. It examines the connection between the visual, social, and physical dimensions of everyday life in which the arts perform essential roles, while illustrating clearly the common features of theme and style in works of art separated by time and culture. For art critics, artists, and all those interested in art criticism."--Publisher.