Stimulating, informative guide by noted teacher covers painting technique, painting from life, materials — paints, varnishes, oils and mediums, grounds, etc. — a painter's training, more. 64 photos. 5 line drawings.

An illustrated introduction to oil painting for the beginner. Outlines the essential components of good painting and presents the basic materials and tools of the medium, with instruction on fundamental elements such as drawing, composition, value handling, colour and colour mixing.

First published in 1924, Harold Speed's "The Science and Practice of Oil Painting" is the informative and fascinating guide to oil painting by the renowned painter and teacher. Speed was born in London in 1872 and studied architecture at the Royal College of Art before he began painting. He then studied art at the Royal Academy Schools and was elected to the Royal Society of Portrait Painters in 1896. Speed later wrote many instructional manuals on drawing and painting, including his widely influential "The Practice and Science of Drawing", published in 1913. Like his other works, "The Science and Practice of Oil Painting" is full of helpful advice and penetrating insights that are presented in an engaging and personal manner. Speed covers all of the important aspects that an oil painter must consider, such as materials, techniques, training exercises, and an invaluable discussion of tone, color, and form. Speed also examines in great detail the styles of many famous painters and encourages his readers to become better observers of the world around them. This classic guide is an important resource for aspiring and experienced painters as well as those that wish to better appreciate the art of painting. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.

"Traditional Oil Painting is that rare sourcebook that comprehensively covers the most advanced techniques and concepts of oil painting"--P. [2] of cover.

Complete with an Introduction by James Gurney, the author of Dinotopia, this guide introduces not only the techniques of oil painting but also the underlying principles of figure drawing. A series of images by the Old Masters includes 32 pages in full color, featuring paintings from the Italian, Dutch, Spanish, French, and British schools. "A masterly exposition." — Liverpool Daily Post.