Why was artistic realism so uncommon outside of Europe for most of history?

by [deleted]

I found myself looking at some east asian art in my art history textbook, and I had a thought... Realism seems to be far less common among civilizations outside the mediterranean. Why, if for any reason at all, did it not emerge? Or did it emerge, I'm just not looking right?

Searocksandtrees

hi! not discouraging any direct responses, but FYI you'll find several discussions about realism & the lack thereof in this section of the FAQ*

Why wasn't ancient art realistic?

*see the link on the sidebar or the wiki tab