In this volume we take up the third branch of the work which mainly occupied Ruskin during the years 1856–1860—namely, the teaching of drawing. In connexion with this work he published in 1857 The Elements of Drawing, and in 1859 The Elements of Perspective. To those two books are added, in this volume, the revised lessons in drawing, which he entitled The Laws of Fésole. This book belongs to a much later date (1877–1878), but is here included on account of its topical connexion with the earlier books.

The Elements of Drawing originated somewhat in the same manner as Academy Notes. We have seen (Vol. XIV. p. xx.) how that series of criticisms upon the exhibitions of the year was undertaken as a kind of “circular letter” in answer to requests for Ruskin's opinion and advice about works of current art. He had from a much earlier date been in the habit of giving drawing lessons by letter, as his Letters to a College Friend (1842) show; and after the publication of the first volume of Modern Painters he was with increasing frequency asked by readers of his books for advice and assistance with regard to the practice of drawing. Such requests came from all sorts and conditions of men and women, from humble students, otherwise unknown to him, and from great ladies or dear friends.