An instructional book for intermediate and advanced students, this volume is also a valuable tool for teachers looking to master the principles of light and shade. One of the most in-depth treatments available, it offers a wealth of details on mediums and techniques, including natural and artificial light, gradations, and more.

Author Anson K. Cross begins with studies of chiaro-oscura, or light and shade, and examples of values and their tests. He discusses the aims of students and artists and offers some general advice on technique and method before exploring the specifics of charcoal, pencil, and brush drawing. Sixty-five black-and-white illustrations, many of them drawn by students, appear throughout the book.