A Concise Introduction to the Knowledge of the Most Eminent Painters

London: T. Cadell, 1778. First edition of this ambitious eighteenth-century traveler’s guide, an alphabetical table of over two thousand European painters, giving the dates, birthplaces, favorite subjects, and influences of each, from Andrea Abate (a Neapolitan painter of fruit) to Lambert Zustrus (a disciple of Titian). The guide is intended “to instruct (as well as to assist the Memory of) those Gentlemen and Connoisseurs, who either travel Abroad for the Improvement of their Taste, or intend to view the curious Collections in their Kingdoms.” A very good artifact of the glory days of the Grand Tour. Octavo in fours, measuring 8 x 5.25 inches: [124]. (truncated) Nineteenth-century calf spine, marbled paper boards, raised bands, spine compartments ruled in gilt, grey morocco spine label lettered in gilt. One page of publisher’s advertisements at rear. Light occasional foxing, heavier to final signatures; lightest shelfwear to binding. (Inventory #: 1003701)