E.H. Gombrich wrote art history for general readers, best known for The Story of Art. The book moves from prehistoric and ancient art through Renaissance painting, modernism and later movements, explaining how artists worked within the conventions and problems of their own periods rather than treating art as a simple march towards realism. Gombrich also wrote A Little History of the World, a broad historical introduction originally aimed at younger readers, and more specialist work on perception and representation. His prose is clear, explanatory and confident, using individual works as examples rather than overwhelming the reader with dates or theory. His books fit introductory art history, cultural history and accessible humanities non-fiction. Read more Less