PART VII. PICTURESQUE IMPROVEMENT. 357 



As picturesque improvement has been so much involved in 

 planting and ornamental gardening, there is some confusion in 

 its history. But it may suffice here to say, that it is of British 

 invention; that the first suggestions were probably derived 

 from Sir William Chambers's Oriental Gardening, and first ex- 

 emplified by Mr. Kent, at Esher ; but that very little of the 

 picturesque appeared in any place, or publication, before the 

 proprietors of Foxley and Downton improved their residences, 

 and produced their writings. By public professors nothing has 

 yet been done according to the principles of these gentlemen*; 

 but on the contrary, as might naturally be expected, from the 

 selfishness of mankind, they have been every where decried and 

 opposed by that class of men. Hence nothing can be expected 

 in the way of an historical introduction. 



In proceeding to treat of this art, the following subjects will 

 be taken into consideration: 1. The leading principles of the 

 art. 2. The materials of real landscape. 3. The union of 

 these materials in forming a picturesque composition. And 4. 

 The subjects to which picturesque improvement is applied. 



* Unless I may except my own humble efforts, made with no inconsiderable op- 

 position from the general opinion, as well as the whole class of rural designers ; 

 and consequently made from principle and conviction of their intrinsic excel- 

 lence. 



