Werner's Nomenclature of Colours - by Patrick Syme

About the Book

"Read & Co. presents this new edition of Werner's Nomenclature of Colours. First published in 1814, this small volume comprises a collection of 110 swatches displaying nature's colour palette together with their poetical descriptions. In the 18th Century, German geologist Abraham Gottlob Werner set out to establish a standard reference guide to colour for use in the general sciences. Scottish flower painter Patrick Syme later enhanced and extended Werner's work to include all of the most common colours or tints that appear in nature, with each colour swatch accompanied by examples from the Animal, Vegetable and Mineral Kingdoms. The resulting work was used by many scientists, explorers and anthropologists to further their studies, including Charles Darwin during his time on the HMS Beagle. Werner's Nomenclature of Colours is considered the predecessor of modern systems such as Pantone and has even inspired heritage paint ranges from the likes of Dulux and Farrow & Ball. Read & Co. is republishing this beautiful little volume in a new facsimile edition and has taken great care to reproduce the original text and art for a new generation of artists and scientists"--

Book Synopsis

Originally published in 1814, this remarkable volume features 110 colour swatches paired with poetic descriptions that capture nature's vibrant palette.

In the eighteenth century, German geologist Abraham Gottlob Werner (1750-1817) set out to establish a standard reference guide to colour for use in the general sciences. Decades later, Scottish botanical artist Patrick Syme (1774-1845) extended Werner's work, refining it into a comprehensive catalogue of the most prominent shades and hues found in nature. The result was a timeless compendium of colour that showcases the beauty of nature across the animal, vegetable, and mineral kingdoms.

Each colour swatch in Syme's edition of Werner's Nomenclature of Colours is accompanied by examples found in nature, offering a practical tool for scientists, artists, and explorers alike. Notably, Charles Darwin used this guide during his voyage on the HMS Beagle to accurately describe his observations.

This exquisite collection of colours celebrates the harmony of art and science, capturing the beauty found in the natural world.

Review Quotes

"A treatise which ought to be in the hands of every mineralogist, and indeed in the possession of naturalists of every description."-Inverness Courier, 1822

"I had been struck by the beautiful colour of the sea when seen through the chinks of a straw hat... according to Werner nomenclature 'Indigo with a little Azure blue."-Charles Darwin, 1832