We cite from the cover: /
"Between 1839 and 1880, photography and photographic techniques became evident and influential in all walks of life. In one particular area of endeavor, this new medium's potential became very evident. Photography would change the study of art forever.
Using the camera to record and preserve great works of art, these new "historians" transformed the study of art from a type of connoisjeurship to the present-day study of art history. Unfortunately, until now, twentieth-century scholars in general have failed to recognize the contributions of these early photographs and photographers to art history.
Pioneering the study of an important area of history and photo historical studies, "A Higher Branch of the Art" is an essential reference book for any art library and should be required reading for students of art history. This book pinpoints photography's significant role in the development of the way we study art."