Maxfield Parrish’s Chemistry Notebook, 1890
Monday, August 3rd, 2009
The artist and illustrator Maxfield Parrish attended Haverford for three years but did not graduate. Among the many items in the Parrish collection is his notebook containing descriptions of thirty-three chemistry experiments carried out between February 7 and May 23, 1890, as well as a preliminary outline of laboratory procedures and equipment. In addition to the text written in india ink in Parrish’s distinctive hand, many of the experiments are illustrated with fanciful and highly decorative watercolor and ink drawings. These illustrations range from small head and tail pieces to double page representations of experiments being carried out by elfin lab assistants. The Chemistry Notebook is prized not only as a record of academic activity at the end of the 19th century but also for its unique glimpse into the formation of an important artistic talent. While sanctioned artistic outlets were very meager during Parrish’s tenure at Haverford, the college has since amassed a fine collection of artworks, most of which are available for personal study in Special Collections.