ROBERTS, James (1753-c.1809). Introductory Lessons, with Familiar Examples in Landscape, London, 1800, 4to, 8 lithographed plates, 5 of which hand-coloured, contemporary half calf. FIRST EDITION. RARE.

ROBERTS, James (1753-c.1809).  Introductory Lessons, with Familiar Examples in Landscape, for the Use of those who are Desirous of Gaining some Knowledge of the Pleasing Art of Painting in Water Colours; to Which are Added Some Clear and Simple Rules, exemplified by Suitable Sketches and More Finished paintings. As this Work is Chiefly Intended for the Mere Beginner, the Rules are Both Familiar and Progressive. To Which are Added, Instructions for Executing Transparencies, in a Style both Novel and Easy. London: "Printed by W. Bulmer and Co ... for the Author," 1800. 4to (260 x 210mm). Printed dedication to His Grace, Duke of Marlborough, 8 lithographed plates by James Roberts, 5 of which hand-coloured, 2-page glossary at the end (the text leaves lightly browned with some light spotting and staining, a few darker spots, the plates generally very clean). Contemporary half calf and speckled boards, spine gilt, marbled endpapers (foot of spine torn away, lightly rubbed). "Between 1775 and 1781 [Roberts] furnished most of the drawings for the portrait plates in Bell's 'British Theatre' and more than sixty of these, carefully executed in watercolours on vellum, are preserved in the Burney Collection of theatrical portraits in the British Museum. [He] exhibited annually at the Royal Academy from 1773 to 1784, and again from 1795 to 1799" (DNB). FIRST EDITION. RARE. Abbey Life 181.