Ottley, William Young: An inquiry into the origin and early history of engraving: upon copper and in wood ; with an account of engravers and their works, from the invention of chalcography by Maso Finiguerra to the time of Marc Antonio Raimondi (Band 1) (London, 1816) [Cicognara, 266A]

PREFACE.

xix

Imperial cabinet of prints at Vienna have not, at all times, been as
faithful guardians of the early specimens of Italian engraving
entrusted to their care, as of those of Germany.*

In the course of this work I have had occasion to express my
acknowledgments to several gentlemen, and especially to Francis
Douce, and Thomas Lloyd, Esqrs. for their kindness in the loan
of curious and valuable materials, as well as for many interesting
communications, which their experience enabled them to furnish :
but I have still to return my best thanks to William Alexander,
Esq. for the obliging attention which I have at all times expe-
rienced from him, during my researches in the extensive collec-
tion of ancient engravings at the British Museum; a collection, of
which his gentlemanly politeness, and his acquirements as an artist,
render him, in every respect, so worthy a superintendent and
guardian.

* I have thought it necessary to make the me in the heat of disputation at p. 343, might
above declaration, in consequence of a friend otherwise admit of being construed into a
having suggested, that an expression used by serious accusation.

Kensington, June 7 th, 1816.