Starter question on old barrel lenses

[windrider]

So im looking to get a graphic 4x5 and I really like the idea of the ability to use barrel lenses with the speed graphic. I see some like to use petzval lenses that give an odd circle pattern and dagor and so forth. What im wondering is if there is a website were I can read about old barrel lenses and the qualities they exhibit such as the circle effect with a petzval?