Here is a wonderful book that both inspires and educates. A huge volume covering the Gothic movement in art from the 12th century to the Renaissance, it focuses largely on the development of Gothic architecture, resplendent in well-placed illustrations and photographs that evoke the grandeur of the period. Smaller sections follow on sculpture, painting, stained glass, and gold work. The text is clear and organized, with each chapter authored by German writers and art experts; the translation from German may account for some small editorial errors. Michael Camille's Gothic Art: Glorious Visions (LJ 11/1/96) is perhaps a more general, popular introduction to the topic, but this book is a major text on Gothic art. Highly recommended for academic libraries and larger public libraries.AKaren Ellis, Baldwin Boettcher Lib., Humble, TX