Kessler (art history, Johns Hopkins U.) has written an engaging text introducing the reader to the issues and experiences central to medieval art. The eight chapters are thematic; their topics are matter, making, spirit, book, church, life and death, performance, and seeing. These broad themes invite discussion of a wide range of medieval art so that the reader will come to appreciate the work's impact on the viewer in connection with its context, function, setting, creation, and materials, among other factors. In addition to b&w images, a group of good quality color plates is included. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)