Technical Art History: A Journey Through Active Learning

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in art analysis, as it provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the field. Through a series of case studies, it explores traditional and innovative scientific techniques used to authenticate paintings, and emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach in evaluating artworks. It is an essential resource for students, collectors, and connoisseurs alike.

Format: Hardback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 11 June 2021
Publisher: World Scientific Europe Ltd

This book is a true treasure! It's a remarkable journey through active learning. Dudley Herschbach, a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, has praised it for its credibility. What sets this book apart is its ability to captivate readers, even as a textbook. Through captivating stories of artistic authentication, it not only entertains as human narratives but also provides detailed, documented accounts of scientific detection. The way the scientific detective work is staged theatrically and the factual credibility of the techniques applied are seamlessly intertwined, making it an engaging and informative read.

One of the fascinating aspects of this book is that it doesn't shy away from presenting evidence and experts' opinions that may sometimes differ. It leaves the decision in the hands of the readers, reflecting the reality of scientific investigations. This makes it an excellent resource for young people who are interested in becoming art analysts.

In recent years, the issues of authenticity in paintings have reached alarming proportions, accompanied by a lack of understanding among connoisseurs and collectors of the insights that modern scientific investigation can offer. This lack of knowledge has sometimes led to skepticism towards the results of scientific analysis. Recognizing this need, the art world has gradually begun to develop educational programs aimed at enhancing the technical knowledge of collectors, connoisseurs, and young students aspiring to work as art scientists.

Technical Art History serves as an essential introductory textbook in addressing this requirement. It introduces and explains traditional and innovative scientific techniques through separate case studies, utilizing the analysis of paintings and their authentication as a means to convey these concepts. By presenting these techniques in a relatable and accessible manner, the book equips readers with the necessary skills to navigate the world of art authentication.

In conclusion, Jehane Ragai and Tamer Shoeib's book is a remarkable achievement. It captivates readers with its engaging storytelling, while simultaneously providing valuable insights into the world of scientific detection. Its credibility and attention to detail make it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in art analysis, and it serves as a testament to the power of education in fostering understanding and appreciation of the arts.

ISBN-13: 9781786349392