The World According to Colour
Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.
Check link for latest rating. ( 698 ratings, 115 reviews)Read More
The World According to Colour
Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
The World According to Colour
Fox's remarkable narrative showcases how colours hold different meanings and symbolisms across various cultures and epochs. For example, he examines how blue was once a rare and precious pigment, reserved for depicting the divine and the regal in ancient artefacts and artwork. On the contrary, red, with its associations of power and passion, has been revered and feared throughout history. Each chapter is brimming with fascinating stories—a journey from the lapis mines of Afghanistan to the fashion houses of Paris, revealing how our ancestors saw and interpreted their world through these vibrant lenses.
With eloquent prose and profound insights, Fox demonstrates how artists, scientists, writers, philosophers, explorers, and inventors have both shaped and been shaped by the meanings attributed to colours. The author argues that through an understanding of colour, we uncover a deeper comprehension of varied cultures around the world and our collective history. As Fox puts it, "We have projected our hopes, anxieties and obsessions onto colour for thousands of years. The history of colour, therefore, is also a history of humanity."
The multidisciplinary approach of The World According to Colour allows readers to appreciate the complex interplay between the visual and cultural impact of colours. Each chapter does not merely recount historical facts but also offers a fresh perspective on how colours influenced specific epochs. By intertwining stories from the realms of art, history, and science, Fox provides a compelling and dazzling account of how colours continue to shape our world.
This scintillating book will appeal to anyone with an interest in art history, cultural studies, or simply an appreciation for the vivid ways in which colour enriches our lives. Through lively storytelling and meticulous research, James Fox invites readers to embark on an exhilarating journey through the world's palette, ultimately showing how, through colour, we can better understand ourselves and the vibrant world around us.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The World According to Colour by James Fox has been praised for its engaging and readable history of colour. Critics note it is filled with fascinating facts and anecdotes, making it a delightful and educational read. It has been described as both a philosophical and visual feast, inspiring readers with its breadth and vivid writing.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780141976655
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 April 2023
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd
Illustration: 32pp colour inset
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 19.0mm
Width: 128.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 284g
Pages: 320
About the Author
James Fox is Director of Studies in History of Art at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, and a BAFTA-nominated broadcaster. His many acclaimed BBC television documentaries include programmes about British art, Japanese culture and an enduringly popular history of colour in art.
More from Arts & Culture
View allWhy buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 10,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Pick Ups
We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.