( fi ) 



distant hills " cut up your composition into several equal portions — a 

 circumstance of very frequent occurrence in all such situations as well aa 

 in mountainous districts. 



Breadth. 

 Remember that simplicity of construction, combined with masses of 



Fig. i. 



light and shade, agreeably disposed, are the requisites necessary to give 

 a picture dignity and repose. Therefore, although it is most desirable to 

 have variety and contrast in the lines of your composition, it is highly 

 important that these values be carried to no great excess. An outline, 

 well diversified in a natural manner, will always be more pleasing to the 

 eye than a repetition of lines without variety ; for the sight is as soon 

 fatigued with monotony and repetition of forms as the ear is with the 

 continued recurrence of the same sounds. The rounded forms of the 

 clouds will contrast with the angular forms of the mountain, and these, 

 in their turn, with the horizontal lines of water ; but it is the breaking 

 up of these masses I would particularly wish you to guard against, always 

 bearing in mind it denotes greater talent in those who can " simplify," 

 rather than in those who " cut up " or complicate their productions. For 

 instance, see that your distance is not " broken up " by, say, an open row 



