THE PRINCIPLES OF ORNAMENT, OR THE YOUTH'S GUIDE TO DRAWING FOLIAGE

LOCK, Matthias.  THE PRINCIPLES OF ORNAMENT, OR THE YOUTH'S GUIDE TO DRAWING FOLIAGE.

London: Robert Sayer, (circa 1768-1770). Oblong 8vo. Loose leaves, contained in later clam shell box. 12 numbered engraved plates, including title leaf. [Heckscher, English Furniture Pattern Books, 11.1].

A rare survival with only two copies listed on OCLC (British library and Danish National library).  Lock was one of the most accomplished eighteenth century ornamentists, many of whose original designs are preserved in the Victoria and Albert Museum.  Lock's masterly handling of rococo detail and ornament in his plates were popular in the nineteenth century where they were often added to and plagiarized in publications under Chippendale's better known name.  This title by Lock (along with several of his other specialized publications on furniture and ornamental designs) were sold in early America.  This particular title was advertised for sale in Baltimore in 1783. 

 

SOLD