454 APPENDIX

adaptation of bead mouldings, to unite the landscape with the bead decorations of the dress.

Nothing can be more exquisite than the application of the modestly subdued ornamentation in the dress-subdued, not by carelessness or slightness, but by infinitely tender precision. Less well done, they would be more conspicuous. Lippi will work half-an-hour on a fold or a jewel-that it may not be observed. But when you do observe it, you get something for your pains. See the folds of veil, fastening of breast chain work, beads round spiral of throne, etc.

7. But Carpaccio attains a still less obtrusive and more exquisite delicacy by thinking less of the precision of form than of its mystery; and Mr. Murray’s sympathy with his manner has made the drawing of the heads of both king and princess very exemplary and wonderful. The treatment of the king’s hair, and the subdued light in his grieved eyes, are entirely beautiful: decoration and jewel painting, this, of highest order, while the princess’s crown vanishes almost away, the painter trusting to the wreath of her tresses.

I have just noticed, as I quit the picture, the conspicuousness of the ring by which the dark tablet is fastened. I have no doubt Carpaccio meant thus to connect this tablet with the marriage ring in the princess’s hand. The circular panes of glass in the window prevent the eye from being fastened on it too closely.

[Version 0.04: March 2008]