This plate was used as an illustration for Longfellow’s
“Flower-de-luce.” The pond-lily may be used in nature study or as an
illustration for some poem.
The strokes necessary or useful in drawing these bits are shown at
No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3. At No. 1 the chalk is placed in an oblique
position, drawn gradually downward, and at the same time twisted to the
horizontal position at the middle of the stroke. Try this stroke in a
great variety of positions. The spots produced will be found useful in
much of the flower and leaf drawing. Apply these in the fleur-de-lis.
The strokes at 2 for the leaves were given and described on plate 4,
and may be appropriated wherever reeds or grasses are to be drawn.
Stroke 3 is simple, yet often found troublesome by pupils. Place the
chalk in a vertical position, draw it quickly downward, twisting it to
a nearly horizontal position. Let the accent be at the upper end of the
stroke. Try a number of these strokes, letting them meet at the centre
of the flower. In making the drawing of the pond-lily, accent the
nearest petals.
The reflection in the water, and the reeds in the background are
obtained by delicate vertical strokes, crossed in the water by
occasional horizontal touches. Use simple curving strokes for the lily
pads.
[Illustration: Plate 26
“This castle hath a pleasant seat.”
----our castle’s strength
Will laugh a siege to scorn.