Marks are one of the collector's most important tools when it comes to identifying and dating antiques. Of course, it is important to understand that they should never be relied upon completely, as many have been copied or faked. What you should rely on is experience. Handle as many antiques as you can and learn to combine your knowledge of marks with the knowledge of how an authentic piece looks and feels. Whether you are buying at auction, flea market or antique shop this is the book you need to identify and date what you find. More than 6,000 marks are organized for quick, at-a-glance reference with full-colour sections on silver, Sheffield plate, bronze figures, ceramics, glass, costume jewellery, toys and dolls. This comprehensive guide can be kept handy to identify antique finds and valuate them from a catalogue of the most common marks that you will encounter, as well as any unidentified treasures you already own.
First published in 1998, Miller's Antiques Encyclopedia has gone on to sell more than 150,000 copies worldwide and been published into seven languages. This new edition includes a thoroughly updated directory, list of suppliers and up-to-date price codes for each item. Compiled by an international team of over 40 consultants and writers, and offering clear and wide-ranging coverage of antiques and collectables, this book contains valuable information for both the enthusiast and the experienced dealer. An extensive glossary explains the terms used throughout the book and clear cross-referencing leads you into related areas of interest. All the traditional areas of collecting are featured, with extensive sections on furniture, ceramics, silver and glass. More specialist subjects, such as jewellery, scientific instruments, Oriental art and sporting memorabilia are also included. Clearly and logically organised, practical and packed with absorbing and useful information, Miller's Antiques Encyclopedia is an invaluable aid to collecting and the definitive reference book on the subject.
This american edition is filled with up-to-date authoritative valuations and photographs of more than 10,000 objects. A succinct description of each item contains a price range.
From the 'soft modernism' of Scandinavian furniture to the sleek, clean lines of the lighting created by the Castiglioni brothers in Italy, Judith Miller's Mid-Century Modern reveals the glory of one of the most exciting periods of design history: the late 1940s to the 1970s. The book explores the most desirable interiors, furniture, ceramics, glass, metalware and textiles of this hugely popular period. It features all the iconic designs and designers of the era, with price codes to help value and appraise your mid-century collection. The careers and influence of ground-breaking designers, including Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Robin and Lucienne Day, Arne Jacobsen and many others, are described in stand-alone feature pages. Key pieces (including a number of previously unpublished examples) are placed in an historical context with coverage of innovations in design, production methods and materials.