The whole book is an infectious delight.' - RTE Guide 20021101 'An utterly unique and fascinating read' - Publishers Weekly 20021216 'Packed with facts, fables and anecdotes. Her travels are Marco Polish her research vast but lightly worn. it would be hard to confront a painting ever again without seeing in it a kind of coded map of the world' - Daily Telegraph 20021019 'An irresistible cornucopia.

Both picaresque and picturesque, it's a rich read.' - Evening Standard 20030607 'Full of forgotten facts and beguiling anecdotes. as vivid as the colours themselves' - Daily Express 20030607 'You get your money's worth and change to spare. ' curiosity is inexhaustible, her reading wide, and her writing style a delight' - Sunday Telegraph 20030518 'It's pure pleasure to join this gutsy arts reporter-cum-scholar on her quest for historical pigments and dyes around the world' - Independent 20021122 'A highly companionable guide, adventurous and romantic' - Independent on Sunday 20030518 'A treasure trove of human history and obsession.the breadth of research and insight is dazzling.' - Glasgow Herald 20030607 'Packed with stories, anecdotes and adventures.

Colour victoria finlay