FIELD’S CHROMATOGRAPHY TREATISE ON COLOURS AND PIGMENTS FOR USE OF ARTISTS 1885 COLORS
Field’s Chromatography: A Treatise on Colours and Pigments for the Use of Artists (Second Edition, 1885). Originally by George Field. Modernized by J. Scott Taylor, B.A. Cantab. Published by Winsor and Newton, Limited 38, Rathbone Place, W., London, 1885.
207 pages, with one unnumbered page and an additional four pages of art trade advertising at the end. Four plates including a color frontispiece. Approx. 19 cm tall and 14 cm wide. Brown cloth binding with gilt-stamped title and decoration, and a multicolor “Chromatography” panel on the front cover.
Field’s Chromatography is a foundational reference on the use and theory of color in art. Originally written by chemist and color theorist George Field, the text was revised and updated by J. Scott Taylor to reflect 19th-century developments in pigment use and artistic practice.
Generally very good condition, with clean pages and a tight binding. The front cover is clean and bright, with original gold embossing and multicolored title intact. There is minor chipping and wear to the spine, and some edge wear to the lower corners. The spine is slightly torn at the top. Previous owner’s name is inscribed on the first page.
This copy bears the penciled name of Edwin Wilkins Field (1804–1871), a known supporter of George Field’s work. Field was a legal reformer and patron of the arts, with a documented role in promoting and facilitating publication of George Field’s writings.
An unusually well-preserved copy of this scarce edition.
