Graphic Design. 1890–Today

Through the turbulent events of the last century-and-a-half, graphic design-with its vivid, neat synthesis of image and idea-has distilled the spirit of each age. It surrounds us every minute of the day, from minimalist packaging to colorful adverts, environmental graphics to sleek interfaces: graphic design is as much about reflecting society's aspirations and values as it is about transmitting information.

Now published as part of our popular Basic Art series, this vibrant compendium lays out the evolution of graphic design from its inception in the 1890s up until the present day. Using his sweeping knowledge of the field, author Jens Muller has curated hundreds of examples from across the globe, arranged by decade.