With The Invention of Art, Larry Shiner challenges our conventional understandings of art and asks us to reconsider its history entirely, arguing that the category of fine art is a modern invention--that the lines drawn between art and craft resulted from key social transformations in Europe during the long eighteenth century.

Shiner spent over a decade honing what he calls 'a brief history of the idea of art.' This carefully prepared and--given the extent and complexity of what he's discussing--admirably concise, well-organized book is the result. . . . Shiner's text is scholarly but accessible, and should appeal to readers with even a dabbler's interest in art theory.--Publishers Weekly

The Invention of Art is enjoyable to read and provides a welcome addition to the history and philosophy of art.--Terrie L. Wilson, Art Documentation

A lucid book . . . it should be a must-read for anyone active in the arts.--Marc Spiegler, Chicago Tribune Books