The History of Art explores the range of objects and monuments made from prehistory to the present day. It emphasizes the study of visual arts as a means of understanding intellectual and cultural history of humanity. Renaissance palaces, Hiroshige prints, modern mosques, Etruscan tombs, Mira Nair films, Barnett Newman's zips, and much more, are all brought into focus in the Jaffe Building.
Penn's Department is an internationally renowned leader in the history of art and architecture, with a long, distinguished record of teaching, mentoring, and research. The faculty are committed to innovative instruction, and they work closely with students to develop skills in the interpretation of art and visual culture. Special excursions to museums allow students to examine paintings, sculptures, prints, and manuscripts first hand, and each year seminars organize exhibitions at the Arthur Ross Gallery or the Institute of Contemporary Art, and other venues (see Halpern-Rogath Seminars).
The Department also fosters programs with local galleries and museums that can prepare interested students for a fulfilling career as a scholar, curator, or gallery or museum professional. The curriculum provides a solid foundation for a general liberal arts education and careers in communications, public relations, and other fields where engagement with images and texts is paramount. Courses in the history of art also contribute to majors in visual studies, literature, history, religion, area studies, cinema studies, studio art, among others.
100-level courses are broad introductions covering great geographic and/or temporal ranges and are suitable for all students.
200-level courses treat a single artistic period, movement, medium, or locale. While focused, they are good introductory courses for most student levels.
300-level courses follow a seminar format and focus on an artistic theme, issue, medium, or problem. These are most appropriate for juniors and seniors but may also be suitable for sophomores (check requirements for individual courses).
400-level courses follow the format of 200-level courses and are primarily intended for junior and senior majors.
500-level courses follow a seminar format. These are open to undergraduates and graduate students.
* Fulfills the General Requirement in the sector indicated.