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ignorant of the science of chemistry in its most simple, and, as we are ac-
customed to think, its most evident principles, their researches were almost
confined to a study of the operations of nature, although, as will be seen
in
the following paper, they, by happy but unexpected coincidences, acquired
a
knowledge of the manufacture of several colours.        Of the use of these,
Vitruvius complains.   "The ancients laboured," he says, "
to accomplish and
render pleasing by dint of art that which in the present day is obtained
by
means of strong and gaudy colouring; and for the effect which was formerly
obtained only by the skill of the artist, a prodigal expense is now substituted."
   Plate XVI.
iven the elevation of a salon in the rich and
nze. This mode of decoration is often, from a
d with that of Louis Quatorze; but a more
tdily detect the difference of character.   The
arkable for its ponderous and massive elegance;
nd variety of ornament.
I to the reader, the interior of the large panels
with flock-paper or silk damask. The ornament
fixed, the panels may be painted.      The little
pilasters should be painted in imitation of the
highly esteemed when the style was first em-
e, water-colour paintings may be 4ntroduced, and