This is a multi-volume reference work that brings together seminal writings on the history, philosophy and practice of painting. The collected essays range across the domains of philosophy, history, aesthetics, literature, science, anthropology, critical theory, cultural studies and art practice. Each volume is arranged thematically and separately introduced by the editors. Together the volumes trace a chronology of painting from the pre-Renaissance onwards, addressing notions and techniques of the artist and the artwork before setting out the key critical perspectives, problematics and approaches that frame modern painting practice from the nineteenth century through to the contemporary period. With key essays from Michel Foucault, Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari, Michael Fried, Gerhard Richter, Hubert Damisch, Rosalind Krauss and many more, this set will be an essential resource for all students and scholars of fine art.