SYMBOLIC COLOURS a rare treatise concerning the symbolism of colour written in 1837 by Le Baron Frederick de Portal. It was published in English as a limited edition of 100 copies in 1845. There has been no edition published since. Within this book the reader will discover many references scarcely known today concerning both symbolism and ancient uses of colour, presenting the reader with a unique insight and understanding of another time, a time more concerned with spiritual verities than with the rewards of a life dedicated to materialism and sound-byte scholarship. Furthermore, the author demonstrates throughout a profound familiarity with the esoteric teachings discreetly transmitted from generation to generation in the schools of initiation that have existed in one form or another throughout the history of civilisation. It is also apparent that he is concerned neither with the scientific application nor with the philosophical understanding of colour, rather, it is clear that his primary concern is with the symbolism of colour employed by the learned of previous generations; about which he is evidently as well, or better informed, than any of his generation.

Foreword by: Allan Armstrong