Description:
Smith, John (b. 1648?) The Art of Painting. London: Printed for Samuel Crouch, at the Corner Shop of Pope's Head Ally, on the right hand next Cornhill, 1676. First edition, octavo, rare, three U.S. copies in ESTC, bound in very good contemporary or slightly later marbled sheepskin, 5 1/2 x 3 1/4 in.
Smith's work was written to assist other makers of sundials in painting the faces of their devices. He describes grinding colors with oil, the tools of painting, gold leafing, recommends color choices, gives recipes for glue, provides a reading list "for him that would be a Compleat Dialist," describes how to paint sun dials, painting interiors ("wainscot, doors, windows, posts, rayles, pales, gates, and the like),and makes suggestions with an eye to the preservation painted surfaces "to resist weather, and preserve Timber or woodden works from rotting."
A2-8 (lacking license leaf, A1),B-F8, G2.
http://estc.bl.uk/R37566
Estimate $6,000-8,000
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
Samuel Crouch, United States, LondonJohn Dorfman
Director, Books & Manuscripts
508-970-3293
Fine Books & Manuscripts
The Fine Books & Manuscripts department delivers scholarship, expertise, and attention to detail in appraisals, evaluations, and auctions of rare books and historically important material ranging from medieval manuscripts to presidential documents.