William Gaunt (art historian)

William Gaunt (1900 – 1980) was a British art historian, critic, and writer. He is best known for his comprehensive and accessible surveys of Western art history, particularly his works on English painting and the aesthetic movement.

Gaunt studied law at Oxford University before pursuing a career in art journalism. He wrote extensively for publications such as The Times Literary Supplement and The Studio. His writing style was characterized by its clarity, elegance, and wit, making art history engaging for a broad readership.

Gaunt's major publications include:

• Giotto (1934)
• London Promenade (1935)
• Bandits in a Landscape: A Study of Romantic Art from Salvator Rosa to John Martin (1937)
• The Aesthetic Adventure (1945)
• British Painting from Hogarth to Turner (1951)
• The Pre-Raphaelite Dream (1966)
• A Concise History of English Painting (1964)
• The Great Palace: The Story of Parliament (1975)

Gaunt's work contributed significantly to popularizing art history and making it accessible to a wider audience. His books remain valuable resources for students and enthusiasts interested in the development of Western art. He was admired for his ability to synthesize complex historical and artistic trends into coherent and readable narratives.