History of Art
History of Art is the study of painting, sculpture and architecture in their social, economic,
religious, political and cultural contexts. It accounts for the appearance and function of art
and considers the factors which brought artefacts into being.
The course consists of four units of study:
Unit 1: Visual Analysis and Interpretation
This unit requires students to have knowledge and understanding of formal characteristics
and terminology and a general knowledge of historical, social and cultural contexts of
painting, sculpture and architecture. The unit assesses visual skills and measures how
effectively a student interprets works of art.
Unit 2: Themes in History of Art
This unit focuses on art’s historical themes, including subjects and genres, materials and
techniques, form and style, functions of works of art, historical and social contexts,
patronage, gender, nationality and ethnicity.
Unit 3: Investigation and Interpretation
This unit is an in-depth examination of painting, sculpture and architecture of the Fifteenth
Century in Europe. The work of all major artists will be studied and placed within their
social, political and cultural contexts. The Renaissance in Italy and the rest of Europe will
form the core of this study.
Unit 4: Investigation and Interpretation
This unit is an in-depth examination of painting, sculpture and architecture of the Sixteenth
Century in Europe. The work of all major artists will be studied and placed within their
social, political and cultural contexts. The High Renaissance and Mannerist styles will form
the core of this study.
The A2 units build on the knowledge and skills that have been acquired through AS study,
where a more intensive approach is required. Specific historical periods and artistic styles
will be studied. A sophisticated understanding of how works of art may be interpreted and
how art is affected by historical contexts as well as social and economic conditions forms
the basis of the A2 course.