Ladies' manual of art; or, profit and pastime.: A self teacher in all branches of decorative art, embracing every variety of painting and drawing on china, glass, velvet, canvas, paper and wood the secret of all glass transparencies, sketching from nature. pastel and crayon drawing, taxidermy, etc.

"Ladies' Manual of Art; or, Profit and Pastime" by Anonymous is a comprehensive instructional guide focused on various branches of decorative art, written in the late 19th century. The book serves as a self-teacher, aimed primarily at women seeking to cultivate artistic skills as a means of both profit and pastime. It covers a wide array of topics including painting on different surfaces, sketching from nature, pastel drawing, and taxidermy, all tailored to empower its readers in artistic pursuits and home decoration. The opening portion of the manual introduces readers to the significance of foundational principles in art and emphasizes the encouragement of creativity, especially among women interested in artistic pursuits. The preface outlines the book's objective—to present a structured and accessible approach to various artistic methods, enabling readers to develop practical skills for both personal enjoyment and financial benefit. Moreover, the introduction dives into key concepts of drawing and sketching from nature, providing insights into perspective and the essential materials needed for a budding artist. This sets the stage for an enriching journey into the world of arts and crafts.