The Story of Christian Art Revelation Through the Centuries

“A beautiful and instructive history of humanity’s age-old engagement with God and the world through art.”
—Sir Gabriele Finaldi, Director, The National Gallery, London

With stunning reproductions of major artworks on nearly every page, this is a book that both informs the mind and nourishes the soul. From the dawn of creation, reflected in the imagery of the Old Testament, to the first faint brushstrokes in the catacombs, to the soaring Gothic cathedrals that lifted medieval eyes and souls towards heaven, to the vibrant streets and studios of Renaissance Europe, The Story of Christian Art guides you through thousands of years of artistic inspiration and achievement.

With every turn of the page, you enter the spiritual, artistic and historical worlds that shaped each masterpiece, gaining a better sense of the profound spiritual convictions that were driving each stroke of the brush or cut of the chisel.

Whatever your own religious perspective, The Story of Christian Art throws a brilliant light on the many ways in which Christian faith transformed the cultural landscape of the West. It also provides fascinating glimpses into the significance of biblical themes and Christian symbols embedded in the artworks, encouraging a more nuanced and rewarding appreciation of each one.

“Remarkable for its depth and scope, this beautifully written work introduces us to the history of Christian art with an engaging, unmatched warmth and with a unique intimacy of understanding . . . Fr Patrick van der Vorst is a true master of his subject.”
—Paul Murray OP, Professor Emeritus, Angelicum University, Rome