Smith, John: A catalogue raisonné of the works of the most eminent Dutch, Flemish, and French painters: in which is included a short biographical notice of the artists, with a copious description of their principal pictures : a statement of the prices at which such pictures have been sold at public sales on the continent and in England; a reference the the galleries and private collections in which a large portion are at present; and the names of the artists by whom they have been engraved; to which is added, a brief notice of the scholars & imitators of the great masters of the above schools (Part 7) (London: Smith and Son, 1836)

INTRODUCTORY OBSERVATIONS. vii
In further reference to the value of pictures, the Author
has, in almost every instance, found that the estimation
of gentlemen on any work they may possess, far ex-
ceeds that of the usual trader; and there are not a few
who have dealt largely, and profitably too, in pictures,
who would yet feel themselves scandalized to have
the term of picture dealer applied to them. He will
not, however, use his pen to expose or unmask the
impositions which may have been practised, either by
the regular dealer or by their noble and gentlemanly
competitors; his object at present is to improve the
commerce of genuine works of art, and, at the same
time, to protect the amateur.