This volume investigates the radical transformation of visual culture between 1900 and 1945, questioning how the rapid evolution of artistic movements defined the trajectory of the 20th century. Gabriele Crepaldi provides a comprehensive survey of this era, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach to synthesize developments across painting, architecture, photography, and cinema. The text argues that this period functioned as a crucible for modern aesthetic identity, establishing the foundational principles that would influence subsequent artistic production.

The text offers a structured, academic overview suitable for students and enthusiasts seeking a foundational understanding of early 20th-century aesthetics. Its broad scope and focus on interdisciplinary connections provide a clear framework for navigating the complexities of the avant-garde period.