The course will explore the methods, goals and theoretical framework in which three dimensional, functional objects have been and are interpreted. Class discussion will include distinction between "fine arts," "decorative arts" and "design"; role and limitation of connoisseurship; the current relationship of object study to aesthetics, social history, history of technology, anthropology, sociology, gender and ethnic studies; the effect of the market on history and scholarship; and current theories on the role of objects in human life.

Hour: CONFORTI