gems, lapis lazuli, history of gem use, pigments, art

Cennini’s practical handbook presents detailed instructions for the materials and techniques of the painter and craftsman, including drawing, preparation and use of colors, fresco and oil painting, glues and cements, panel painting, gilding, illumination, work on cloth and glass, mosaic, and casting. Particular attention is given to mineral pigments, including azurite, malachite, vermilion, and ultramarine, with descriptions of their preparation, grinding, properties, and appropriate uses. Ultramarine is praised as the finest of colors and its preparation is described in considerable detail. Of particular gemological interest is Cennini’s discussion of stones used for burnishing gold: hematite is recommended, but sapphire, emerald, balas ruby, topaz, ruby, and garnet are said to be even better, with the choicer stones preferred. Thompson’s translation is based on his revised Italian text and attempts to render Cennini’s technical vocabulary in terminology useful to modern practicing artists and craftsmen.