The Royal Guide to Wax Flower Modelling

The Royal Guide to Wax Flower Modelling by Emma Peachey, first published in 1851. Mrs. Peachey being, for the reasons stated in this work, compelled to circumscribe the giving of lessons, if not to discontinue instructions altogether in a few months, the book will, therefore, under any circumstances, be indispensable. Floral wreaths made by the ancient Egyptians were formed from thin plates of horn stained in different colors, sometimes also of leaves of copper, gilt or silvered over. The ancient Romans excelled in the art of imitating flowers in wax and in this branch of the art attained a degree of perfection which has not been approached in modern times. Crassus, renowned for his wealth, gave to the victors in the games he celebrated at Rome crowns of artificial leaves made of gold and silver.