The Approach to Painting. By Thomas Bodkin, Director of the National Gallery of Ireland. London: Bell, 1927. First Edition. Pp x,192. With 23 plates in the text. Publisher’s red cloth boards, title lettered to upper cover & spine. Boards faded, scattered foxing to contents. Presentation copy from the Author, Inscribed on front free endpaper : “To Harold L. MD, from his friend and patient Thomas Bodkin. With kindest and grateful regards, December 1929.”

Thomas Bodkin was one of the most important figures in the promotion of Irish art during the 20th century. He was the friend and supporter of many artists, as well as an ardent advocate of official assistance for all forms of culture in Ireland.