PREFACE TO THE SIXTH EDITION.
THE steady revival of the "Art of Illuminating" during the last few years, and the rapid progress it has made amongst the educated classes, even since the fifth edition of this work was published in 1859 (all the copies of which are now sold), has induced me to re-publish it, under the present less expensive form, in order to keep pace with the many publications which, under the names of "Manuals," "Primers," "Treatises," "Guides," and "Instruction Books," have lately been forced on the public notice, each pretending to give the desired information to the followers of this beautiful art, with more or less display of talent; but all tending towards the cultivation of a highly interesting pursuit, and proving that the nineteenth century may in future history be distinguished as having produced a "style" of its own, and identifying it with the happy and peaceful reign of "Victoria," under whose mild rule, arts and civilization are so eminently flourishing. The perusal, however, of these various publications has confirmed me in the conviction, that, for the purposes of instruction, the plan originally carried out by me was best fitted to achieve the object in view, my aim being to instruct in, and not to lecture on the art. I have, therefore, studiously divested the present publication of technicalities, or of any attempt to display learned research, in the origin or progress of the art, which, to the uninitiated, would not be instructive, and could only prove "caviare to the general." My long professional experience as a practical artist, has induced me to clothe, in the plainest language, the information I wished to convey; and, in common English, endeavour to speak to the understanding of my readers. If, therefore, the present volume prove continuously useful, as it has hitherto been, my readers will absolve me from blame or egotism, in thus adhering to my original plan; my care having been not to fall into the error of my contemporary imitators. All I have ventured to add, is such information as my continued practical experience has enabled me to collect, and I cheerfully communicate it to my readers.
3, Torrington Square, October, 1860.
INTRODUCTION.