AskHistorians's Reviews > The Story of Art

Probably the best introductory text for art history and art theory that exists. Originally published in 1950, but subsequent editions (it's up to the 16th now) have been broadened to include key modern artists, works, and ideas. Clearly written and explained in Gombrich's no-nonsense style. It does stick largely to the Western art history canon, but for an introduction to the subject, it's a go-to.