Jose Clemente Orozco

In an erudite tour of the archaeological treasures of Mexico, Neil Baldwin explores the unusual biography of a myth and a detailed cultural history. Color photos.

The Encyclopedia of Mexico: History, Society and Culture seeks to present an overview of the specific events and broad processes of Mexican history, society and culture from ancient civilizations to the present day.

This two-volume work consists of some 600 entries. A collaborative effort that has involved more than 350 leading scholars from a variety of different countries, the Encyclopedia of Mexico makes a wide range of scholarship available to all those interested in the history of Mexico.

From Renoir and Picasso to Red Grooms and Guerrilla Girls, this is the most useful reference work on twentieth-century art available in a one volume. Compiled by Ian Chilvers, the editor of The Oxford Dictionary of Art, it is both authoritative and accessible, with generous use of anecdote and clear explanations of many potentially confusing terms. Providing broad coverage of painting, sculpture, drawing, and the applied arts, the dictionary has major entries on the important movements and styles of the twentieth century, including Dada, Cubism, Surrealism, Art Deco, Abstract Expressionism, Pop art, Body and Performance art, and Neo Expressionism. In addition there are entries on art schools and galleries, exhibitions and prizes, terms and techniques. The biographies feature not only artists but also collectors, critics, dealers, and patrons. And though the dictionary concentrates on the great names, it is not confined to the mainstream of modern art, featuring many artists working in a more popular tradition as well as interesting peripheral figures (such as the forger Elmyr de Hory). This up to date and informative guide is an essential reference for anyone interested in modern art.