The Sense of Order: A Study in the Psychology of Decorative Art

By E.H. Gombrich

Book Overview

The Sense of Order provides a comprehensive survey of the rich history and theory of decorative art. The universal human impulse to seek order and rhythm in space and time can be seen in an astonishing range of human activities: children's play, poetry, dance, music and architecture, as well as art. Its persistent prevalence in our every activity calls for a rigorous explanation of this fascinating phenomenon in terms of our biological heritage.

Professor Gombrich in this tome, which he himself regarded as his most original work, offers precisely this. His characteristic erudition and expertise signify his writings here as no less than revolutionary in our perception of art and, in turn, of our very selves.

A pleasure to read, this pivotal book is as accessible as it is sophisticated, and as engaging as it is idiosyncratic.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0714822590
• ISBN13: 9780714822594
• Release Date: January 1994
• Publisher: Phaidon Press
• Length: 412 Pages
• Weight: 3.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 8.0" x 10.6"
• Age Range: 13 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 8 to Postsecondary

Customer Reviews

much more than art history, a basic for designers, students and profesionals

I use this book in my classroom to explain not only the development of the ornament in all cultures, but to go deep further in the analisys and exploration of the basic elements of design. Mainly an author regarded in the art history circles, this book of Gombrich would be an excelent companion for all design students, fashion, graphic or any branch you came from. it is also a charming and full of fun facts to read. if you get it you would discover reading for many time justa little part and coming back continously for fresh references and inspiration.

Great Gombrich, again

Another great book by Gombrich, this one is particularly inclusive of many theories of his that have been brought up in other books, yet his reflections on art, nature, psychology, the brain and how we see and think, as well as decorative development throughout history is marvelous. As usual, not a book you sit down to read in one sitting...one you come back to time and time again. A must for the serious artist's library.