LibGuides: Art & Design: Reference Sources

Art Encyclopedias

Encyclopaedia of the Arts
In a single volume this work attempts to cover architecture, sculpture, applied arts, painting, graphic arts, literature, theatre, cinema, photography, music, opera and ballet, while focusing on western artistic pursuits. Entries are extremely brief. N31.E54
Encyclopedia of American Art
Attempting to cover American painting, sculpture, architecture, glass, silver, furniture, printmaking, folk art, photography and handicrafts, this title contains an index (guide) to the different divisions of art, a glossary and a bibliography. N6505.B73
Encyclopedia of Australian Art
Covering all aspects related to Australian Art this work also contains some useful appendices listing collections, exhibitions, galleries, and periodicals. N7400.M27 1994
Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance
This 2 volume encyclopedia covers all areas of the arts associated with the Harlem Renaissance, with bibliographies and a very useful index. NX512.3.A35 E53 2004
Encyclopedia of the Romantic Era 1760-1850
Both online and 2 print volumesof this work covers all aspects of the arts during this time period. Particularly useful are topical articles and discussions over artistic works associated with the romantic movement. Articles conclude with listings of selected works and bibliographies. Online and NX452.5.R64 E53 2004

Oxford Art Online
Formerly known as the Grove Dictionary of Art, this is the primary encyclopedia of art in English. The 34 volume set contains lengthly articles on people, places, buildings, organizations, and works of art. This is a good place to start to gather some dates and basic terminology along with bibliographies at the end of articles for referral to further information. Print version is also available: N31.D5 1996

Phaidon Encyclopedia of Art and Artists
This contains concise articles of biography, styles, periods, schools and movements as well as surveys of civilizations. N33.D5313 1978
Thames and Hudson Encyclopaedia of Impressionism
This title is devoted to the people and terms that apply to impressionism. With a comparative chronology of impressionism to other world events. Available online and in print: N6465.I4 D4 1990
World Encyclopedia of Naïve Art
Find here entries consisting of biographical information on Naïve artists with additional essay chapters, a lengthy bibliography, an index to artist by country and extensive illustrations. N6494.P7 B54 1985
Encyclopedia of Animated Cartoons,
Covers silent cartoon series, theatrical sound cartoon series, full-length animated features, television cartoon series, and animated television specials. Includes an extensive historical overview of animation and information about Academy and Emmy award winners. Online
Encyclopedia of world art
18 volume encyclopedia with lengthy entries by major historians, and a huge amount of images. N31 .E533