Best of
Museology

2006

Windows on Nature: The Great Habitat Dioramas of the American Museum of Natural History


Stephen Christopher Quinn - 2006
    Its dioramas-a dazzling mixture of nature, science, and art-have inspired young and old alike, and are world-renowned examples of the unique diorama craft: art in the service of science. Now, in the only book of its kind, readers get an insider's view of these "windows on nature," witnessing their creation step by meticulous step.More than forty of the museum's finest dioramas are featured here, depicting the fauna and flora of myriad ecological environments. Stephen Quinn, a diorama artist at the museum, introduces the explorers, naturalists, painters, sculptors, taxidermists, and conservationists behind these three-dimensional marvels, and explains how their collaborations make the displays so lifelike. This enchanting book is the perfect gift for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and museum goers everywhere.

The Complete Greek Temples


Tony Spawforth - 2006
    From the debated origins of the temple in the Greek dark ages to its transformation at the end of antiquity, this book summarizes the latest thinking, bringing to light new discoveries, and placing emphasis on the architecture and its cultural, historical context.

America's Art: Masterpieces from the Smithsonian American Art Museum


Theresa J. Slowik - 2006
    This book illustrates paintings, sculpture, photography, and folk art, and is useful for the entire family.

International Law, Museums and the Return of Cultural Objects


Ana Filipa Vrdoljak - 2006
    This important book explores the removal and the return of cultural objects from occupied communities from the nineteenth century to the twentieth century and explores the concurrent evolution of international cultural heritage law. Examining the responses of governments and of museums to the question of restitution, this book is essential reading for archaeologists, international lawyers and all those involved in cultural resource management.