The Painter in Oil: A complete treatise on the principles and technique necessary to the painting of pictures in oil colors

"The Painter in Oil" by Daniel Burleigh Parkhurst is a comprehensive treatise on the principles and techniques necessary for oil painting, likely penned in the late 19th century. The book aims to equip aspiring painters with a solid understanding of practical and theoretical aspects of oil painting, emphasizing the importance of quality materials and a thoughtful approach to artistic expression. Parkhurst, a pupil of notable artists and a former lecturer on art, draws from his extensive experience to guide readers through the intricacies of the painting process. The opening of the book sets the stage for its instructional content by highlighting the significance of using quality materials in painting. Parkhurst emphasizes that a skilled painter must choose appropriate tools and supplies, arguing that the base materials impact the overall quality of the work. He introduces key concepts regarding essential equipment such as canvases, brushes, and paints, advocating for thoughtful selection and maintenance to avoid hindrances in artistic practice. The discussion points toward a larger framework of artistic training, where understanding both the materials and techniques lays a foundation for developing one's painting skills.