Art and Architecture: Background Information

On this page you will find examples of dictionaries, encyclopedias, and guides (also known as reference materials) for art and architecture. 

Use UC Library Search to find more entries on your topic in our online collection of reference materials.

Search your term, using quotation marks if it is more than one word.

When you get your results, select Resource Type > Reference Entries from the left toolbar.

Table of Contents

• Architecture Resources
• Auction and Sales Resources
• Biographical Resources
• Encyclopedias and Dictionaries
• Iconography Resources
• Photography Resources
• Research Strategies and Methods
• Resources for Artists

Encyclopedias:

• Encyclopedias provide excellent introductions to many aspects of research and can provide you with keywords to use in your searches.

Dictionaries:

• Subject dictionaries are a great way to familiarize yourself with words and phrases used in research.

Handbooks & Manuals (use if needed):

• These sources are often good for providing established scientific techniques in research.