Now that OS X 7 is installed and messing up my PPC apps, I have to do something. Which something I did today. Installed Parallels Desktop 6 and Windows 7. Eureka! I'm back in business. The problem was Book Cover Pro, the software I use to create, what else, but book covers. The Windows edition is now working on the virtual machine/Windows 7 partition and I'm a happy camper. Or, at least I will be until Windows crashes on me.
On to old books. I've drooled after a copy of Guide For Drawing The Acanthus, by I. Page, c1850 and at last, I have my grubby little paws on one. Ok, not so grubby. I always clean my paws after using the litterbox. Here is a link to an online 1886 version. There are a few minor differences between the earlier and later, mostly in that the later edition lacks a handful of full page plates. My guess is the originals of the engravings were lost or damaged and rather than have full size plates made, the publisher opted for smaller engravings. I think. Or maybe not.
The author of this book wrote the standard reference for the drawing of the Acanthus leaf. This was and is not for the faint of heart. The geometry of this little leaf is incredibly complex. No free hand sketching for Mr. Page. He lays out for the reader the details of the precision layout needed to replicate this classic form.
In print for at least 35 years, this was clearly a popular book for the aspiring draughtsman, artist, sculptor and, well anyone who felt the pull of classical ornament. I do plan on reading this book, although I have the distinct feeling I won't understand much of it. Nor is it likely I'll find myself drawing an acanthus but that never stopped me from reading before.
So many books, so little time.
Gary
