This classic of art instruction is the work of James Duffield Harding (1798-1863), who served as drawing master and sketching companion to the great Victorian art critic, John Ruskin. Generations of students have benefited from the teachings of this 19th-century master, who sought always to "produce as near a likeness to Nature, in every respect, as the instrument, or material employed, will admit of; not so much by bona fide imitation, as by reviving in the mind those ideas which are awakened by a contemplation of Nature . . . The renewal of those feelings constitutes the true purpose of Art." This volume consists of direct reproductions of Harding's sketches of vignettes from natural settings. Each is accompanied by a series of lessons emphasizing both practical and theoretical considerations. The edition features the added attraction of 23 outstanding plates from the author's Lessons on Trees.

Every artist who works outdoors -- who draws, paints, or sketches landscapes -- will want to own this comprehensive handbook on drawing trees. It shows how to draw every major tree on the American landscape.

Illustrating the dominant features of many common species — elm, maple, willow, apple, more — this manual includes two portraits of each variety, in pencil and other media. 34 drawings.

American national trade bibliography.

Excellent, clearly written how-to guide for training powers of observation, judging proportions, assessing values, plus valuable suggestions for use of drawing media. 180 line illustrations and halftones.