X

INTRODUCTION.

I am therefore the more inclined to hope, that the present collection may be found
useful in supplying a want, sometimes expressed, of a comprehensive view of this
portion of Christian Art, only now beginning to receive the attention, which has long
been bestowed on all that relates to the ancient Art of Pagan times.
The list of authorities at the end of this volume will show how greatly I am
indebted to the labours of others in carrying out its object, and how largely I have
profited by their research : and to all those who have assisted me by their kind advice
and encouragement, I desire here to offer my sincere acknowledgments.
My endeavour has been to collect together some of the various scattered facts
which might help to illustrate, in some measure, this vast subject; while no one feels
more truly than myself how much more fully and ably the task might have been
accomplished by other hands. Such as it is, I trust it may not prove an unacceptable
assistance to those who are seeking for information upon a subject in which a still
increasing interest seems to be felt. If I shall have succeeded in imparting to any
such persons a portion of the pleasure and interest it has afforded me to collect these
examples, and if, at the same time, I have added one page only to the noble history of
Christian Art, my aim and wishes will be fully realized.

London, May, 1852.

L. T.