Art, Language & Essays

Erasmus’ biting and brilliant 16th-century satire is ingeniously reimagined with illustrations by award-winning artist Matthew Richardson.

Van Gogh’s famous letters transform our understanding of one of the most haunting figures in western culture. 

The first-ever complete architectural history of the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican, from the 4th century to the present day. Published by Jaca Book.

The first full-colour publication of the botanical illustrations commissioned by Joseph Banks, with commentaries. 

One of the most beautiful and beloved books of the Private Press movement, and a showcase for Eric Gill’s engravings and typeface, The Four Gospels is reproduced as an exquisite new Folio Society edition.

The Family of Hummingbirds is the definitive collection of illustrations by 19th-century naturalist painter John Gould.

In Heaven on Earth T. J. Clark interweaves philosophical interrogation with contemporary art theory.

Mark Evans brings together some of the most beautiful studies of the English weather in Constable’s Skies. 

James Mustich’s 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die is the fifth title in the best-selling ‘Before You Die’ series.

Melissa McCormick's illustrated companion is the perfect guide to The Tale of Genji, the 11th-century Japanese masterpiece by Murusaki Shikibu. 

In The Writer’s Map, historian Huw Lewis-Jones presents the maps that writers create and those that inspire their writing. 

Vienna 1900 Complete brings together almost 1,000 images representing the richness of the visual arts in Vienna at the turn of the 20th century. 

Part portrait of Britain’s greatest man of letters, part guide to life, The World in Thirty-Eight Chapters is a witty and erudite re-evaluation of Dr Johnson’s enduring relevance. 

Boethius’ incredible presence of mind enabled him to produce this work of genius while he awaited execution on a false charge of treason. For many years the most popular book in Europe next to the Bible, its relevance endures.

William Gaunt's captivating art history classic features beautiful images of the movement's most significant works.

This seminal book was an influence on Oscar Wilde and other aesthetes. Introduced by Michael Prodger, with paintings by Botticelli and Michelangelo.

Never out of print since first published in 1929, this sparkling discussion of women’s status and independence still retains a pivotal place in the Western canon.

One of the most opulent pictorial books ever published, Japan, produced at the end of the 19th century, captures a vanished world in 259 hand-coloured photographs. This is the first time this landmark work has been reproduced in its entirety in two luxurious volumes.

This selection of celebrated essays by Charles Dickens conjures up a peerless, eyewitness account of the 19th-century capital, from the rarefied world of Whitehall to working-class conviviality and blighted slums. 

A major new biography of this perennially popular artist by the world’s foremost scholar of his life and work. Published by Thames & Hudson.

An illuminating study of calligraphy, taking in the birth of the art to the modern renaissance. Published by The British Library Publishing.

Discover the artistic evolution behind one of the literature’s best-loved characters. Published by Michael O’Mara.

The first official history of the British monarchy’s Royal Collection. Published by Penguin Books.

The Bauers explores the fascinating history of this family of talented botanical artists who defined the genre.

An intriguing collection of true tales about works of art that have vanished. Published by Phaidon.

A revelatory new monograph of the brilliant Pre-Raphaelite artist.

The Glory of Byzantium and Early Christendom is a celebration of 300 of Byzantium’s finest works of art and expressions of Christian faith.

A sumptuous new book revealing how Classical mythology has inspired art over time. Published by Phaidon.

A celebration of the design and the artistry of the illustrated book jacket. 

The Royal Academy of Arts celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the Royal Academy, with over 550 glorious images.