It is true that their most splendid results are usually
obtained in the swiftness of the power which is hurrying to the
precipice; but to lay the charge of the catastrophe to the art by
which it is illumined, is to find a cause for the cataract in the hues
of its iris. It is true that the colossal vices belonging to periods
of great national wealth (for wealth, you will find, is the real root
of all evil)[186] can turn every good gift and skill of nature or of
man to evil purpose. If, in such times, fair pictures have been
misused, how much more fair realities? And if Miranda is immoral to
Caliban is that Miranda's fault?
[183] As Slade Professor, Ruskin held a three years' appointment at
Oxford.
[184] This story comes from Pliny, _Natural History_, 35. 36; the
two rival painters alternately showing their skill by the drawing
of lines of increasing fineness.
[185] This story comes from Vasari's _Lives of the Painters_. See
Blashfield and Hopkins's ed. vol. 1, p. 61. Giotto was asked by a
messenger of the Pope for a specimen of his work, and sent a perfect
circle, drawn free hand.
[186] _Timothy_ vi, 10.
THE RELATION OF ART TO USE
Our subject of inquiry to-day, you will remember, is the mode in
which fine art is founded upon, or may contribute to, the practical
requirements of human life.
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