Work began on this new dictionary in the early 1980's. The work was finally finished and published in late 1996. The 34-volume set has 6700 contributors and covers all aspects of the visual arts in all places at all times. The Dictionary of Art has an excellent focus on contemporary art including non-Western arts. Historical material is also included.
Coverage includes biographical, geographical, philosophical, and theoretical information.
It also includes forms, themes, social aspects, and cultural aspects. Entries include bibliographies and an array of images including art works and objects, architectural designs, archaeological sites, maps, and charts. The work reflects recent changes in the accessibility of materials and records, especially those available since the fall of communism in the Soviet Union and eastern Europe. The set will be the standard, if not the definitive, art reference work for generations to come. Cross referencing is weak in places and the index volume must be consulted frequently when researching a topic.