This seminal work on ornamentation is a must-read for anyone interested in the decorative arts. First published in 1856, it offers a comprehensive analysis of the principles and characteristics of ornament from a historical and theoretical perspective. With its scholarly rigor and beautiful illustrations, this book has inspired generations of artists and designers.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.