The Arts of Industry in the Age of Enlightenment
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Celina Fox
During the 18th century, the arts of industry encompassed both liberal and mechanical realms—not simply the representation of work in the fine art of painting, but the skills involved in the processes of industry itself. Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, Celina Fox argues that mechanics and artisans used four principal means to describe and rationalize their work: drawing, model-making, societies, and publications. These four channels, which form the four central themes of this engrossing book, provided the basis for experimentation and invention, for explanation and classification, for validation and authorization, and for promotion and celebration, thus bringing them into the public domain and achieving progress as a true part of the Enlightenment.
‘Fox has now assembled her research in a large and extremely impressive book…. this book covers a very broad territory.’ — Charles Saumarez Smith, Financial Times
‘The illustrations are so exceptional that if this was all Miss Fox’s book was about, it would be valuable…Miss Fox’s book is also a wake-up call to teach every child how to design their way towards a better future – by drawing.’ — Philippa Stockley, Country Life
“A well-researched and definitive account.”--Library Journal
‘Copiously illustrated and lavishly produced, The Arts of Industry is a notable contribution to the interdisciplinary studies of this area that have appeared increasingly in recent years, drawing attention to aspects of British history, skills and art that have been too long overlooked.’ — Jenny Uglow, The Guardian
‘In her extensive survey Celina Fox recreates the world of artisans and mechanics, surveyors and engineers, entrepreneurs and consumers in order to discover the character of industrial progress…The Arts of Industry is handsomely produced to the high standard set by the Yale University Press.’ — Newsletter of the William Shipley Group for RSA History
‘The world of work is not distant from that of the arts, but, instead, integral to it. That is the major theme of this most interesting book…Throughout, this volume is of great interest. Illuminated by numerous, well chosen illustrations, it is one of the more original works to appear in art history in recent years.’ — Jeremy Black, The Art Newspaper
'This is an important book; it alters your idea of what Georgian art might be.' — Martin Gayford, World of Interiors
'A beautifully produced study (Yale has designed yet another visually stunning book)…Compenidous, rich and enormously illuminating account.' — John Brewer, Burlington Magazine
“Fox’s study of the 18th century is thorough and impressive." — Choice
“Celina Fox’s account has amplified and enriched an accepted view of the British Enlightenment.”—Robert Thorne, Construction History Vol.25
Publication Date: March 2, 2010
200 b/w + 60 color illus.