The Progress of the Marbling Art, from Technical Scientific Principles With a Supplement on the Decoration of Book Edges

"The Progress of the Marbling Art, from Technical Scientific Principles" by Josef Halfer is a deep examination of marbling, a decorative art form, primarily focused on its use in bookbinding. The work is structured as both a how-to guide and a scientific exploration of the principles behind marbling. Halfer describes color’s significance and the chemical processes involved in creating marbled designs, seeking to offer practical guidance to both new and seasoned artists. He shares specifics regarding materials like ox-gall and carrageen moss, pointing out their importance in getting the desired results in marbling. The text is written to be useful in the workshop as a reference for the craftsman and as a theoretical learning tool.