The Guardian's leading art critic, Jonathan Jones, presents a radically new history of British art.

"The Captivating Ones is a thrilling story of art and science: thoughtful, provocative, and convincing" - The Times

"Interpretative, passionate, captivating" - Financial Times

"The Captivating Ones bring together Jones' outstanding research into fascinating narrative webs of British intellectual history... Stunning." - Times Literary Supplement

"Even when he criticized my work, I adored Jonathan's writing! He is a true thinker, a brilliant art historian who can support his criticism with more than just opinions." – Tracey Emin

"The Captivating Ones present a radically new history of British art. They connect today’s artists with British culture over 300 years ago, as they find an unexpected thread linking William Hogarth with Tracey Emin, Thomas Gainsborough with Lucian Freud. What they share is a look into the real world. I hope this book changes the way you see Britain and its art." – Jonathan Jones

What is the artistic motive that unites Robert Hooke's insect designs, George Stubbs' horse studies, and Damien Hirst's bitter shark? In this new and vivid narrative of British art, Jonathan Jones advocates for empiricism. From the Enlightenment to the present day, British artists shared a passion for carefully looking at the world around them. Jones shows how this zeal for accuracy and careful observation paved the way for Realism, Impressionism, and the birth of modern art.

This essential art book is a must-read for lovers of Gombrich’s The Story of Art and the perfect introduction to the history of British art.

Also from Laurence King Publishing:

• A World History of Art by John Fleming and Hugh Honour (9781856695848)
• The Short Story of Art by Susie Hodge (9781780679686)

Pages: 368, Year of Publication: 0521, Dimensions: 17.6x17.6cm