Authored by renowned classical painter and instructor Frank Covino and published by Van Nostrand Reinhold in 1970, this seminal hardcover volume serves as a comprehensive treatise defending traditional academic painting methodologies. The intellectual text meticulously explores historical techniques, featuring detailed analyses of Old Master principles, the traditional brown underpainting "rub-out" (togliere strofinando) method, and controlled palettes. Richly illustrated with step-by-step procedures and color plates, the book is an indispensable scholarly resource for serious artists and collectors dedicated to mastering classical portraiture.

Condition Status: Fair to good vintage condition; the dust jacket and hardcover show visible edge wear, surface scuffing, and signs of age-appropriate handling, while interior pages remain clean and structurally sound.