This survey of the art and architecture of the ancient Andes is the first single-volume account designed for a general and art historical audience. Although the Incas are justifiably famous as the masters of the largest empire in the Renaissance world, their art - and that of the creative cultures flourishing for over three millennia before them - has remained unfamiliar.

Yet the vast cities, tall pyramids, shining goldwork and intricate textiles of the Andes constitute one of the greatest artistic traditions in history. Professor Stone-Miller reveals here the strikingly varied artistic achievements of the Chavin, Paracas, Moche, Chimu and Inca cultures, among others.

Placing emphasis on the aesthetic response to an extremely inhospitable environment, she explores the complex symbolic values of the art forms, giving wide-ranging examples of sculpture, architecture, earthworks such as the famous Nasca Lines, metallurgy, textiles and other media.