This book contains a fascinating account of the revival of etching as an artistic form in seventeenth century France. Including a comprehensive introduction to the topic, and going on to cover seminal contributors to this artistic renaissance such as Claude, Callot, Boissieu, Méryon, Lalanne, and Jacquemart - this treatise constitutes a must-read for students and art lovers. It would make for a wonderful addition to collections of related literature. This vintage volume is being republished now in an affordable, modern edition, complete with a specially commissioned new biography of the author. English-born Philip Gilbert Hamerton (1834 - 1894) was an artist, critic, and author. Other notable works by this author include: "Painter's Camp in the Highlands" (1863) and "Contemporary French Painters" (1867).