Life-changer. I read the book based on this series [1] when I was progressing from doodling / being mostly unaware of visual art to being interested in (seeing and making) visual art. I've never looked back.
In the book, the image quality in it is low so I recommend watching the TV series as linked
Episodes 2&3 are far more interesting. They focus on paintings as depicting ownership of property. Episode 2 is ownership of females. Episode 3 as ownership of all other property. A history lesson through classical art.
Yes, couldn't agree more with episodes 2&3. This TV series is a profoundly valuable introduction into how to think critically about art (and other cultural products).
Episode 4 on how we are surrounded by images of "alternate ways of life" is amazing... it's like "taking the red pill" in the Matrix. So much things we take for granted, never even question, taht we take to be the "normal" way of life.
In the book, the image quality in it is low so I recommend watching the TV series as linked
[1] https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/014103579X/ref=asc_df_014103579X...