The author of this study considers that a distinctly modern art world emerged in 18th-century England. The 18th century witnessed the establishment of the first public spaces for the display of works of art, widespread discussion of artistic issues, and the rise of an art market responsive to the tastes of a wide audience. This book discusses this phenomenon, showing how major developments in English painting accompanied rapid economic expansion, and how the sudden light of public exposure transformed pictorial theory and practice.