This innovative collection of essays offers exciting new research and thoughtful reflection on the subject of visual culture and its relationship to art history. Brings together innovative scholarship by major scholars. Engages with cross-cultural questions, asking if attention to visual culture is a western preoccupation. Draws on a wide range of cultures, locations and historical periods, from the eighth century China to contemporary South Africa, from Byzantium to early modern and modern Europe. Covers a wealth of visual forms and media including photography, film, painting, sculpture, drawing, installation and the decorative arts