The Art of Preparing and Making the Materials used in Writing [School piece or Penmanship sheet] 1786

Carington Bowles I created this instructional print, "The Art of Preparing and Making the Materials Used in Writing," around 1726, using etching. The composition is organized around a central text block, framed by oval vignettes demonstrating aspects of the writing process. The print’s structure directs our attention to the semiotic function of each image, which, coupled with the text, creates a comprehensive visual guide. For example, on the left, we see the preparation of "Pounce" and "Black Ink," while on the right, the focus is on "Quills" and "Sealing Wax." This balanced arrangement suggests a structured approach to learning, typical of educational materials from this period. Bowles transforms everyday activities into a set of visual codes. The aesthetic order is more than just decorative; it aims to instill values of diligence, precision and moral virtue in the viewer, reflecting Enlightenment ideals about the importance of reason.