American Mission Art Pottery Midwest Makers / Rare Book 92 black-and-white photographs and 12 full-page color plates illustrate approximately 200 examples of American art pottery designed in the Midwest including such makers as Wheatley, Clewell, Rhead, Sicard, UND, Teco, and many more.

ART POTTERY OF THE MIDWEST by Marion John Nelson, University Art Museum, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, 1988.

A typical museum text, the photography is superb and the narrative is rich. This rare book covers many of the American arts and crafts firms in the Midwest including many of the lessor known firms. The book covers by chapter: Art Pottery of the Midwest. The Persistence of the Image – Ohio: Indigenous Naturalism and Blended Grounds; Adopted Matt Greens (Wheatley Pottery Company, Other Potteries, Why Matt Green?); Iridescent, Metalic and Crystalline Effects (Jacques Sicard, John Lessell, The Look of Metal, Charles Walter Clewell, Crystalline Effects); Plain Glazed Ware in Image Country; The Object as Image; Rediscovering the Line – Slip Trail Work (Henry Schmidt and Turada, Jervis and Cusick at Avon, Frederick H. Rhead); The Impact of Rhead; Modernity from Another Source – The American Indian; Conclusion. Shapes and Glazes: Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana: Michigan – Pewabic; Illinois (Teco, Norweta and Chicago Crucible, Haeger and Monmouth, Cliftwood); Missouri (Zark and Ouachita, University City); Indiana (Amaco, Muncie, Brown County, Overbeck); Conclusion. The Image Reaffirmed: Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, North and South Dakota: Beginnings in Wisconsin and Minnesota (Susan Frackelton, Pauline, Norse, Pauline and Norse, Handicraft Guild of Minneapolis); Iowa (Shawsheen, Iowa State University); North Dakota (University of North Dakota, Dickota, Rosemead); South Dakota (Pine Ridge Sioux Indian, Rushmore); A Wisconsin and Minnesota Finale (Ceramic Art Studio, Red Wing); Conclusion. Checklist of the Exhibition; Literature; and Index to the Potteries.

'Art pottery arose as part of two late nineteenth-century movements in western culture manifested first and foremost in England: the Aesthetic Movement, an attempt to counteract the materialism of the time with a new emphasis on art, and the related Arts and Crafts Movement, an attempt to reintroduce handcraftsmanship and individual creativity into the production of objects for the home.' This book reflects the design and invention of art pottery and provides information on many of the lessor know Midwest firms who made considerable contributions to these movements. This rare book belongs in the permanent reference library of the collector, dealer, or historian of American art pottery.

10 in. x 8 in. softback in very good+ condition. 112 pages.

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Manufacturer: American  

Antique Oriental Carpets Symbols Dyes Ident Scarce Book Beautifully illustrated in color, this early out-of-print book presents an in-depth survey of antique Oriental carpets – how to identify them and care for them.

ORIENTAL CARPETS FOR TODAY. By Nicolas Fokker, Doubleday & Co., Inc., Garden City, NY, 1973.

This book seeks to be 'an authoritative manual explaining the types, availability and standards of craftsmanship for Oriental carpets,' and 'a basis for assessing quality and condition of the carpet in front of you. Sixty full color illustrations illuminated all types of carpet—from the warm red of the Abaden to the famous sky blue of the Zendjan. Popular sizes, knot count and unique characteristics of wearability (or lack of it) supplement the handsome photographs. But the book does not merely advise on things to look for in selecting a rug; it explains the designs—what they represent and the story told by each. An oriental carpet incorporates the folklore and traditions of the particular tribe which created and wove it. Odd designs, which may look purely geometric to the layman’s eye, might symbolize fertility, charm against the evil eye, or perhaps be used in a mosque or harem.' This conveniently-sized book, full of great information for the potential buyer, has plenty of information for the experienced collector as well.

7.25 in. x 10.75 in. hardback with dust cover in very good condition. 135 pages.

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Contemporary Oriental Rugs / NEW In-Depth Book ORIENTAL RUGS OF THE SILK ROUTE by John Gregorian, Rizzoli, NY, 2000.

'The silk route was an ancient caravan route that began at the Golden Horn in present-day Istanbul and extended through the Caucasus, Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asia to China and its seaports. ORIENTAL RUGS OF THE SILK ROUTE by John Gregorian, president of one of the oldest and largest oriental rug institutions in North America, provides an illustrated tour of the modern-day oriental rug-making centers of the Silk Route. A compelling text and stunning color photography complemented by vintage black-and-white images transport you to Middle Eastern villages and cities, revealing the rug-making culture and process there.'

'Chapters cover the history and lore of the Silk Route and the famous weaving centers of India and Turkey, relating stories of the weavers, dyers, and merchants; superstitions; religious symbolism, and Middle Eastern aesthetics. Also included is a wealth of rug examples and information on the rugs themselves, such as rug types, dyes, symbology, weaving techniques, and knots. There is also professional advice for rug buyers: an assessment of the rug-making industry today; a complete guide to evaluating and purchasing a rug; discussion of buying and trading customs; and helpful tips on negotiating abroad as well as on decorating with oriental rugs throughout the home. A glossary provides definitions of oriental rug terminology, while an appendix rounds out the book with a complete discussion of cleaning and repair.'

9.4 in. x 11.3 in. hardback with dust cover in like-new condition. 175 pages.

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Chinese Japanese Korean Oriental Antiques / Scarce Book Beautifully illustrated throughout, including over 90 black and white and 30 full color photographs, this book is a definitive guide to collecting Oriental antiques.

COLLECTING ORIENTAL ANTIQUES by Judith Moorhouse, Galahad Books, NY, 1976.

For would-be collectors who have been discouraged by the high prices and extreme rarity of many Oriental antiques, here is a book explaining 'what is easily obtainable, where to get advice and how to begin a collection, with advice on dealers, auction houses, reproductions, fakes and much else that often puzzles or alarms the beginner. The book deals with the six main areas of interest to collectors. A long first chapter on ceramics by a specialist in the field leads the reader gently through the maze of styles and reigns. The rest of the book, by Judith Moorhouse, covers the superb bronzes, jade carving, enamels, lacquer and small ivory and wood carvings, including Japanese netsuke. There is a map, a date chart and a long illustrated appendix of condensed information on such things as reign marks, decorative motifs, bronze and jade shapes, and the complex subject of Buddhist iconography.' If you have been looking for a readable, highly accessible introduction to Oriental antiques, you will want to add this book to your reference library.

8.5 in. x 11.5 in. hardback with dust cover in very good+ condition. 128 pages.

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Ironstone Pottery Marks Patterns Makers Etc Scarce Book Approximately 500 black-and-white photographs supplement a rich narrative which reviews in-depth the history and production of White Ironstone china. The author covers 'production by the famous Staffordshire potters, as well as American producers, with documented dating and explanations of how shapes evolved and changed over the decades.'

A SECOND LOOK AT WHITE IRONSTONE by Jean Wetherbee, Wallace-Homestead, 1985.

This early out-of-print book 'is a definitive study of a true collecting classic that illustrates shapes, patterns, and backstamps of sets and individual pieces known to this knowledgeable expert and author.' This rare book is a collector’s item in itself and an invaluable resource reference work.

8.5 in. x 11 in. softback in very good condition. 191 pages

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American Folk Art Decoys Stoneware Etc. / Scarce Book Lavishly illustrated in color, this early out-of-print book is an in-depth pictorial guide to American folk art.

AMERICAN FOLK ART by William C. Ketchum, Jr., Todtri Productions Ltd., NY, 1995.

'Folk art – the art of the common man – is as much a part of the American way of life as baseball and apple pie. Since the time of the earliest settlers, Americans – professionals and amateurs alike – have been expressing their individuality through the creation and embellishment of everyday objects. From furniture and kitchen utensils to weathervanes and shop signs, folk art has come to be synonymous with the art of inclusion. In this beautifully illustrated volume, noted author and curator, William Ketchum explores our glorious folk-art heritage in all its simple splendor. An integral part of our American culture and history, folk art is a fascinating and wide-ranging topic. This book, with its stunning illustrations and engrossing commentary, will prove an invaluable addition to the library of any collector or enthusiast.'

Oversize 9.6 in. x 13.6 in. hardback book with dust cover in very good condition. 144 pages.

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Antique American Rhode Island Furniture / Scarce Book The profuse black-and-white illustrations, in-depth captions, and rich narrative combine to make this early out-of-print an invaluable resource reference work.

AMERICAN FURNITURE IN PENDLETON HOUSE by Christopher P. Monkhouse, Thomas Michie and John Carpenter, Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, Rhode Island, 1986 is a companion volume to an exhibition held October 3, 1986 through March 1, 1987 and titled, 'Cabinetmakers and Collectors: Colonial Furniture and its Revival in Rhode Island.'

The catalog includes 164 items: chests, chest of drawers, high chests and dressing tables, clocks, desks, sideboards and cabinets, dining tables, tea tables, card tables, chairs, Windsor chairs, cradles and beds. Excellent black and white photo plates illustrate each item and in-depth descriptions discuss maker, date, place of manufacture, provenance, previous exhibits and publication treatment, design and source of design. These objects, from Pendleton House’s museum-quality collection of antique American furniture, represent the best of antique furniture from the heartland of colonial America.

9 in. x 12 in. softback in very good+ condition. 228 pages.

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Antique German Berlin Porcelain KPM Etc. / Scarce Book Approximately 60 color and black-and-white photographs with complete in-depth captions highlight this early out-of-print book which pictures and describes beautiful examples of

BERLIN PORCELAIN. Winfried Baer, Curator, Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin, Smithsonian Institution Press, 1980.

A typical museum text, the narrative is rich, the photography is superb, and the captions are in-depth. In addition to the photographs, this book presents a brief history of this ware, and includes a Glossary of terms, and information on marks. Topics discussed include Wilhelm Casper Wegely (1751-1757), the porcelain manufactory of Johann Ernst Gotzkowsky (1761-1763), The Royal Porcelain Manufactory (KPM), and the National Porcelain Manufactory (KPM). This is an invaluable identification guide for the collector, dealer, or historian of European pottery and porcelain wares.

8 in. x 9 in. softback in very good condition. 95 pages.

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American Silversmiths 4,000 Marks 1650-1900 / Rare Book This rare out-of-print book has 'become the most important single reference work for identification of old American Silver.' Over 300 actual black-and-white photographic marks of the silversmiths as well as over 4,000 detailed line drawing marks highlight this book which is a definitive guide to American silversmiths, jewelers, watchmakers, clockmakers and vendors, including manufacturers to 1900, plus a detailed system of indexes.

MARKS OF AMERICAN SILVERSMITHS 1650-1900 by Robert Alan Green, privately published, FL, 1977.

This comprehensive pictorial guide covers collecting silver, the values of American silver, American silver trademarks and hallmarks, and more. 'Presented are working locations and working periods as well as accurate dates of births and deaths. Many errors contained in previous works have been corrected for the first time, and the actual photographic marks of hundreds of silversmiths, may be compared with the time-honored drawings of such authorities as Currier and Ensko. IN the text there are significant guidelines for creating a collection of one’s own, from reading the important hallmarks to determining the value of almost any category of coin or sterling silver. Finally a List of Important Books on American silver can lead to the acquisition of a valuable research library. This book is designed by collectors, dealers, researchers, and other serious students.'

5.7 in. x 8.7 in. hardback with dust cover in very good+ condition. 267 pages. This is a limited edition book – copy '350' of 1,500.

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Antique American Quilts 1849-1988 Values / Scarce Book Lavishly illustrated in color, this early out-of-print book pictures and identifies 500 early American antique and contemporary quilts including values [as of date of publication].

GALLERY OF AMERICAN QUILTS: 1849-1988
by the American Quilter’s Society, Paducah, KY., 1988.

This pictorial guide is the first in a four-volume series of value and identification guides for American quilts. This book features a collection of 500 quilts, with the name, measurements, place and date of making, and materials used. Here is an invaluable identification and price guide for anyone interested in textiles, quilt making and collecting, and American needlecrafts.

8.5 in. x 11 in. softback in very good condition. 127 pages.

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875 Antique American Quilts 1830-1991 Illustrated Book Lavishly illustrated in color, this early out-of-print book pictures and identifies 875 early American antique quilts.

GALLERY OF AMERICAN QUILTS: Book 3, 1830-1991 published by the American Quilter’s Society, Paducah, KY., 1992, is drawn from a catalogue of quilts for sale in 1990 and 1991.

A collection of 875 quilts, all beautifully photographed in color, is presented by the American Quilter’s Society in this volume. Detailed captions tell the names, the sizes, the stitch types and materials used--and approximate value in dollars. This is an invaluable identification and appraisal guide for any textiles curator, antique dealer, quilt collector, or anyone interested in American needlework crafts.

8.5 in. x 11 in. softback in very good condition. 128 pages.

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Art Nouveau Deco Art Glass Marks Makers Types Rare Book 314 color and black-and-white photographs with identifying captions highlight this early out-of-print book which covers in-depth the makers, marks and types of art glass produced during the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods.

GLASS – ART NOUVEAU TO ART DECO by Victor Arwas, Rizzoli International Publications, Inc., NY 1977/1980.

'The development of cameo carving in England heralded an international golden age of glass. Craftsmen, designers and artists vied with each other to create new and beautiful forms and colors, researching new and complex techniques, developing rare skills and achieving extraordinary effects. Art Nouveau and Symbolism provided the artistic foundations for such creators as Galle, the Daum brothers, Tiffany and Loetz to produce consistently new and exciting wares. As artistic movements changed Art deco and Functionalism succeeded as the stylistic vehicles for many new creators.'

'This book is the first to collect and evaluate the considerable amount of valuable research previously carried out on the glass producers of the time. All valuable information on the most important and a large number of lesser known but interesting glassworkers is here carefully weighed and presented, from the English cameo artists of the mid-nineteenth century to those glass designers and glasshouses of France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bohemia, Germany, Austria, Italy, Sweden, the united stets and Russia still producing at the outbreak of war in 1939. Wherever individuals or firms survived the war their story has been brought up to date. The historical background and development of each designer and firm is followed by a description of their styles and techniques and an evaluation of their achievement, all profusely illustrated by photographs of their work. The clear and comprehensive presentation of material together with the many superbly reproduced illustrations, the majority of which were commissioned especially for this book, make this an essential reference work invaluable to collectors, as well as for those with a more general interest in the period and its glass. There are 316 illustrations, 104 in full color.'

Oversize 9.5 in. x 12.3 in. hardback with dust cover in very good condition. 256 pages.

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Contemporary Art Glass Makers Marks Signatures / Book The work of ninety-six glass artists from both the United Sates and abroad is here graphically portrayed in 135 color plates and some 300 black-and-white pictures. Biographies and portraits of each artist, along with reproductions of their signatures, complete this in-depth coverage of the art glass being made today.'

CONTEMEPORARY ART GLASS by Ray and Lee Grover, Crown Publishers Inc., NY, 1975 First Edition.

'Without doubt, this book is the most complete guide to the present fluent and exciting period of glass creativity.' Contemporary glass artists are researched from the following countries: United States; Czechoslovakia; Denmark; England; Finland; France; Israel; Italy; The Netherlands; Norway; Sweden; West Germany; and Yugoslavia. There is also a complete Bibliography and Index. This book is indispensable in identifying by pictures and their associated identifying marks the makers of 'today’s' contemporary glass which is often confused with Victorian and turn-of-the-century art glass. One of the most comprehensive studies done on the subject, this scarce out-of-print book is a collector’s item in itself and would make a fine addition to the permanent reference library of the collector, dealer, or historian of art glass.

8.75 in. x 11.1 in. hardback with dust cover in very good condition. 208 pages.

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Oriental Rugs India Pakistan China Romania Etc. / Book AFFORDABLE ORIENTAL RUGS: THE BUYER’S GUIDE TO RUGS FROM CHINA, INDIA, PAKISTAN AND ROMANIA by Janice Summers Herbert, A Studio Vista book published by Cassell Ltd., London, 1980.

This book 'is a complete reference guide to the increasingly popular, less expensive rugs from China, India, Pakistan and Romania. Illustrated with over 100 full-color photographs, it contains all the data and advice you need to select the ideal rug for your home and budget, to evaluate its quality, and to keep it in top condition. Discussing everything from the preparation of the wool to methods of looming, basic knotting techniques and the symbolism of designs, Janice Summers Herbert compares the merits of various rugs, explaining exactly how to assess their value. Her informative text is accompanied by detailed maps of each rug-weaving region and a fascinating history of the art taken up to the present day. The glossary of rug terminology—from Aubusson to weft—will help you understand and speak the language of the Oriental-rug expert. With the help of this book, you will learn to tell at a glance whether a rug is made by hand or by machine, how old it is, and whether natural or chemical dyes were used. You will discover how to avoid the pitfalls of shopping overseas for the ‘bargain of a lifetime’ and what to watch out for in the heat of an auction. Whether you are an armchair shopper, a prospective collector, an interior decorator, a rug dealer, or are simply interested in Oriental art, you will find this an enjoyable, invaluable reference book and an investment that could literally save you a small fortune.'

7.25 in. x 10.25 in. hardback with dust cover in very good condition. 160 pages.

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Antique American Maryland Silver + Marks / Scarce Book Profusely illustrated with hundreds of black-and-white photographs of silver objects of art including hallmarks, this rare out-of-print book pictures and describes examples of American silver made in Maryland.

EIGHTEENTH AND NINETEENTH CENTURY MARYLAND SILVER: In the Collection of the Baltimore Museum of Art by Jennifer Faulds Goldsborough, The Baltimore Museum of Art, 1975.

Here we have 'a celebration of Maryland’s and Baltimore’s unique heritage in the history of American silversmithing.' A catalog of the Baltimore Museum of Art’s silver collection, the book features especially the 200-piece collection from Mrs. Miles White Jr. which forms the core of the Museum’s holdings in antique silver. While drawing on the definitive work of J. Hall Pleasants and Howard Sill in 'Maryland Silversmiths: 1715-1830' the author has also added much new information. Focusing on detailed technical data and supported by several perceptive essays, this book achieves true authoritative status. A section on 'Marks' and a selected bibliography make this supremely useful for collectors, historians, and dealers. Profusely illustrated in black and white, the volume explains each item in detail with lots of biographical information about the maker as well as dates, stylistic detail, and geographical information. A highly informative and thoughtfully organized wealth of material, this book will make a great addition to one’s reference library.

8.6 in. x 10.25 in. softback in near-new condition. 204 pages.

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