Archive of the World: Art and Imagination in Spanish America, 1500-1800: Highlights from Lacma's Collection

Archive of the World provides a comprehensive study of LACMA's holdings of Spanish American art, featuring new photography and nearly 100 catalog entries by scholars. The book explores the region's complex artistic traditions, which drew on Indigenous, European, Asian, and African art, and showcases the Americas as a major entrepôt.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2022
Publisher: Distributed Art Publishers

Archive of the World presents a fresh perspective on art from the so-called "New World," encompassing a wide range of artistic mediums such as textiles, paintings, and decorative arts. This captivating book, adorned with stunning new photography, serves as the first comprehensive exploration of the remarkable holdings of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in Spanish American art. The arrival of the Spaniards in the Americas in the 15th century marked the beginning of a rich artistic tradition that drew inspiration from a diverse array of sources, including Indigenous, European, Asian, and African art. In 1565, the Spaniards conquered the Philippines, establishing a new commercial route that linked Asia, Europe, and the Americas. As a result, private homes and civic and ecclesiastic institutions in Spanish America were adorned with imported and locally crafted objects, showcasing the region's status as a major entrepôt, as described by one contemporaneous author. Many works created in Spanish America found their way across the globe, attesting to their widespread appeal.

The volume is organized into five thematic sections, each accompanied by a conversation about LACMA's collection and nearly 100 catalog entries written by renowned scholars in the field. These authoritative texts provide multiple entry points for appreciating the material, aesthetic, and historical aspects of the works, serving as a lasting reference in this increasingly influential area of art history.

In conclusion, Archive of the World offers a captivating and insightful journey into the world of Spanish American art, presenting a fresh perspective that challenges traditional interpretations. Through its exquisite illustrations and comprehensive scholarship, this book provides a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Americas.

Weight: 2330g
Dimension: 238 x 289 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636810201