British Portrait Miniatures by Daphne Foskett lands on the |> SALE <| shelves in my shop.
Spring Books, 1968, Hardback in dust wrapper.
First in this edition. [First: 1963 by Methuen & Company Limited] Illustrated by way of: Black & White Photographs; Colour Photographs;
From the cover: Ever since the sixteenth century, when the painting of miniatures (portraits in water colour, oils, or any other medium, and small enough to be held in the hand) was first introduced into Britain, collectors have prized the exquisite work of the best miniaturists. Today there is widespread interest in these portraits which can be no larger than a thumbnail though they may be ten times that size yet enthusiasts have often been hampered by lack of information: very few earlier books on the subject are still available and in recent times few writers have attempted a full treatment.
In this book Daphne Foskett, after vast research and a lifetimes study, has documented the entire subject from the reign of Henry VIII down to our own times. Miniatures served before the days of photography as a family portrait album and numerous artists have been commissioned to produce them. Mrs Foskett has taken care to supply information about lesser-known miniaturists as well as celebrated names like Nicholas Milliard, Isaac Oliver, Samuel Cooper, Thomas Flatman, Mary Beale, Richard Cosway, George Engle-heart and John Smart. This comprehensiveness is reflected in her wise choice of illustrations, among which are some fine but little known miniatures, including a number from her own notable collection.
Today the collecting of portrait miniatures is pursued more enthusiastically than ever. With the passing of time the finest of them have taken their place among art treasures as a visit to many a saleroom will testify.
All lovers of portrait miniatures, and indeed the whole vast public with a general interest in beautiful things, will welcome this reappearance of Daphne Fosketts important book. More than a dozen miniatures are reproduced in fine colour and nearly 200 in monochrome. There is also a most valuable bibliography and a comprehensive index.
Very Good in Good Dust Wrapper. Heavily faded at the spine of the dust wrapper otherwise a very well presented copy.
Red boards with Gilt titling to the Spine. 199 pages. Index. Bibliography. 10¼” x 7″.
This book will be eventually reach my delightful website…(added to my Antiques & Collecting category.) but get 60% off buying from this very blog blog… Buy it now for just £2.60 + P&P! Of course, if you don’t like this one there are plenty more available here!
BookLovers of Bath 