WORKSHOP TREATISES

Workshop treatises such as The Various Arts, written by Theophilus and The Craftsman’s Handbook, written by Cennini are among the very first manuals to be written about art instruction.

The Various Arts
The Various Arts, written by Theophilus around 1130 provides painting and metalworking techniques, advice on creating stained glass windows, instruction on how to use and make tools, paper making methods, and advice on how to setup a workshop.

The Craftsman's Handbook
Created specifically for the young apprentice, around 1390, Cennino Cennini writes, Il Libro Dell’Arte (The Craftsman’s Handbook) based on his own experience. The Craftsmans Handbook provides detailed directions and recipes for all types of painting including, fresco, panel, oil, and egg tempera.