Notice

I offer my humble talents to those who appreciate them. I cannot fail here to express my immense gratitude to God, for in my miserable state, He finally took pity on me, enlightening my understanding, strengthening my memory, and guiding my hand. Despite this, if anyone chooses to criticize me, whether for the simplicity of my style or other trivialities, and labels my work as child's play, it will hardly bother me, provided that this work, childish as it might appear to them, proves useful to its intended audience. Moreover, I believe that a straightforward manner of expression will have a greater impact than florid language, which would be useless in this context, and would not resonate with the youth.

I do not present myself as an orator, as I have already indicated, but as a man enchanted by his art, one who has depicted it on canvas in a clear and understandable manner for everyone; from where my son has transcribed it to dedicate it to all who love design. Although I only share the basic principles for the use of young people, there is no one who cannot benefit greatly from this booklet to advance their knowledge of all the fine arts, such as Painting, Architecture, Engraving, Sculpture, Surveying, etc., which can never be learned without the pen or pencil.

Furthermore, I have included illustrations with all the necessary figures to aid young people's understanding, and I have omitted nothing that may benefit them: thus, it is only envy that could find fault here. However, it is so well known from long ago that I no longer fear its attacks: I flatter myself that even its sharpest arrows will be blunted against the shield of my unconcern. Moreover, if readers are willing to take the trouble to carefully read this small sample of my goodwill towards them, I have no doubt they will find much more than it initially promised. Finally, if this booklet pleases them, I will consider myself obliged to offer them another soon for the advancement of Painting.

Translation Notes:

1. "Stile fleuri" - Translating to "florid style," which refers to an ornate or flowery way of writing.

2. "Dessein" - Referring to design or drawing, indicating the broader concept of visual art design.

3. "Livret" - Literally "booklet," signaling a small or modest book.