Artwork
Practical perspective of landscapes

Practical perspective of landscapes is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Unknown. It dates from 1805 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1805 drawing is a preparatory work for Thomas Noble's treatise on landscape perspective.
About this work
Overview
This 1805 drawing is a preparatory work for Thomas Noble's treatise on landscape perspective. Created in pen, wash, and watercolour, it was later engraved for publication.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing illustrates a step-by-step guide to landscape perspective, with explanatory text on the left and a corresponding sketch on the right. It demonstrates techniques for creating depth, including the use of vanishing points and scaling distant objects.
Technique & Style
The work combines text and image to convey complex concepts, using letters to mark measurements and faint lines to suggest depth. The artist's use of pen, wash, and watercolour creates a detailed and instructive visual aid.
History & Provenance
The drawing was likely produced by Thomas Noble, a Professor of Perspective, for his treatise 'Practical Perspectives Exemplified on Landscapes'. It was subsequently engraved by John Clark for publication.
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