Antiques Reference Books Reviews

Casting Pearls

2011-10-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

The Pearl Buying Guide By Renee Newman

I know that this isn't quite a book on antiques but I felt that after reading it, that it deserved a place here. This is a must read for anyone who deals in antique jewelry. If you love the pearl this book is for you. Jewelry has always been an interest of mine. This book didn't disappoint in the least.

This is not a " rub the pearls against your teeth to determine if they are real" type book. It is a serious lesson on buying and dealing in one of the oldest collected objects in the world. It covers many topics such as "Curious facts bout pearls", "Pearl types and Shapes", Judging color/flaws and make, "Imitation or not?" and "Caring for your Pearls." Subjects that are useful and needed.

This is a second edition from 1995. Heavy weight paper. However, it is one of those bindings that in time will crack open, with heavy use. That's good thing, because it means you're looking and reading it. I can handle this easily enough. There are 188 numbered pages with a full index, a serious appendix and a world class bibliography. It even has a quiz after each chapter, I love this! There is one section of full color photos that really brings things to life, but I wish that there were more color photos. Renee has written several other books in this field. They are now on my want list. Wouldn't one on ivory be great? I found this pearl book online priced under $5.00. The photos are worth that. Mine was a book sale from my local library. Duh! they should have kept this one.

An important book on the shelf of any jewelry dealer or even someone needing to buy a great strand for a special gift.

Remember Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself.

Halloween In America

2011-09-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

The front cover

Pick A Pumpkin:

You know I love Halloween. But I miss the Halloween of years gone by. I'm not too much into the blood and gore scene that fills so much of this holiday now. I enjoy the change of the seasons and lure of mystery and old fashioned scares. If you feel the same way, this book is for you. This is one of my favorites as you can tell from its rag tag condition.

This is Halloween in America: A Collector's Guide With Prices by Stuart Scheider. A Schiffer book for collectors, so you know that its a quality read. This is a 1995 publication and likely its been reprinted and updated.

Loaded with full color,glossy illustrations and 208 numbered pages with a full index and table on contents. It shows items that today are only in the best collections and once were purchased for mere pennies. There are pages devoted to just post cards, lanterns, party papers, noisemakers and much more. Of course
you have to take a grain of salt with the prices. If you read this blog you know my feelings about price guides. This book is a true education for the Halloween collector. In fact, Halloween now out sells Christmas and the prices, even in this economy, for the vintage items are rising in value.

A view of one of the post card pages.

These things have long since gone from being decorations to being works of art and culture. A decorators dream is to group these items together for a folky op-art look. If you on a regular basis deal in or collect vintage Halloween items you have to have this book. This edition was found online for around $20.00.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself.

Art of Tennessee

2011-07-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

Tennessee Time Again

Art of Tennessee by exhibition curators Benjamin H. Caldwell jr., Robert Hicks, Mark W. Scala. Yet another epic tome from the Volunteer State, Tennessee. Other states had better take a lesson from Tennessee and produce some more high quality larger books.

This is a collection from some of the best collectors and museums in the state. Unlike "Art & Mystery" it covers a wide spectrum of the decorative arts, Furniture, silver, fine art, folk art, pottery and the like. It was a joy to read over this book. Not only does it showcase the art but it delves into the world of the artist / creator and the thoughts and meanings behind the actual work.

The opening introductions to each chapter are a pleasure to read. Easy reading and with passion and zeal. Writing that are timeless and current at the same time. Stuff you'll actually use. You'll travel from prehistoric Native American Art to the funky art, both folk and outsider, of the 1950's and 60's. There is an image of Kentucky's darling artist, Edward Troye's, rendition of the horse "Gamma" this is from the collection of Belle Meade Plantation.

Every illustration is full color on heavy luxurious paper. This book which measures contains 375 numbered pages and is fully indexed with all the necessary catalog listings for the serious appraiser and collector. A plus in your collection. These can be found online for as low as $38.00 for the soft cover to as high as $170.00 for the hard back edition. Well worth the price and worth the space on your shelf.

Remember Knowledge is Power So Arm Yourself.

The Art and Mystery of Tennessee Furniture

2011-07-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

Tennessee Waltz:

The Art & Mystery of Tennessee Furniture and its Makers Through 1850 by Derita Coleman Williams & Nathan Harsh.

This is one valuable addition to your library. I don't mean that just figuratively but literally. This book is likely one of the most expensive, modern, mass produced (supposedly) book out in the market. It is worth every penny.

I had said earlier that I was going to begin concentrating on more of favorite titles of the south land. This is a landmark book from way back in 1988, a mere twenty three years ago. Yes, there have been other books and articles on southern furnishings and decorative arts. Many that are outstandingly written and presented. However, most other southern books are smaller in size and length and focus on very tight regional aspects, almost niche subjects. Some writings are more incredibly rare than than this modern volume, but none can touch the cache and the covetness that this book from 1988 does. No other works compare, some come close and some with diligence, time and research can even equal, one day. However for today this is the book to own and reference to. One can only imagine what the world would be like if every state in the south produced at least one book on furniture like this.

"Art and Mystery" as it is commonly referred too, is broken down into various chapters, of course. There are " The Art and Mystery of Furniture Making in Tennessee", "Incidence of Artisans and Their Productions", River Trade and Importing." I personally loved the chapter titled "Patrons" this chapter discusses the active roles that patrons played with cabinet makers and the style setters. The real "meat and potatoes" chapters are, "Desks, Secretaries, and Bookcases", "Safes", "Sugar Chests & Related Forms" and "Bedsteads" just to name a few. The basis of this book is straight forward. There is no, pardon me Mr. Sack, "Good, better & best" categories. If its in here, this book, it is a Tennessee masterpiece and it totally deserves to be there. Another nice fact is that there is a chapter on bedsteads and one on chairs and settees. The chapter on cupboards shows some stunning photos of architectural paneled rooms. Something that you don't see referenced outside of Williamsburg publications.

Photos are basic black and white but are very well done and they show what needs to be shown. There is no dribble of fluffy genealogy and none of the "my piece is better than yours" attitudes that you'll find with some ego stroking authors out there. It just tells what the piece is, a description and a brief history. There are a few pages of color photographs that showcase the highlights from all the chapters.

There are 344 numbered pages in this book. You'll want to read over every page too. If you can find a copy anyway. I eluded to the fact that this book is expensive. Online sources list this book anywhere from $500.00 to as high at $2,000.00. Some have been lucky enough to have found this at bargain prices for under $200.00 and some actually purchased this volume for the original price of $35.00. Library as of late will not inter-library loan this book. And public institutions that have this title in their stacks, should if they have any sense, lock it up. And the reasons behind its limited production or distribution are legendary. Yes, you'll want this book for your reference library.

Granite Ware

2011-05-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hard as Granite:

I think that there is nothing as endearing as granite ware. Its swirling colors are happy and almost dream like. Everyone has encountered that piece of blue and white granite ware in the market place. Durable meant and to last and meant to be used and used hard.

The Collector's Encyclopedia of Granite Ware: Colors, Shapes & Values. by Helen Greguire

This book and its volume II companion are invaluable to the appraiser and collector alike. A story of the American kitchen and hearth. It covers many things are just one of a kind and items that are so incredibly hard to find in the marketplace. I don't think that granite ware, like soooo many things in this decorative arts business, has moved through this down economy unscathed. Sometimes the prices for granite ware are half of what was being traded 20, 10 or 5 years ago. But some of the values for common household items can be shocking even in this economy. So take a grain of salt when looking at the value guide.

A heavy substantial hard back book published by Collector Books. My copy is from 1990 and has been reprinted several times. Full color glossy photographs, 414 numbered pages. Covers a wide range of items broken down by some excellent categories, like What is Granite Ware?, Shades of Color, Granite Ware Names and Makers and just page after page of American and European wares. some things that I didn't even know were made in granite ware, like dust pans and watering cans. The chapters, and there are several, on children's ware and toys is worth the cost of the book.

A plus for any appraiser that deals with country or primitives on a regular basis. Everyone needs to have this book.

Remember Knowledge is Power, So Arm Your Self.

Been Away

2011-05-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

Been Away;

Sorry that I've been away. The store and other things have pulled my away. But I'm feelign motivated and plan to start back reviewing again. Als0, I plan on including more book and magazine articles on Kentucky decorative arts. Look for these soon. So dear readers thank you for hanging in there with me.

Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself.

2010-06-23T11:22:00.000-07:00

Clear As Mud edited by Warren Payne

This book has been a long time in coming. For decades the field of Kentucky art pottery has been a mystery. Not only has it been a mystery to novices but also to seasoned antique dealers like myself. There is a handful of Kentucky potteries, but all have as many quirks and bends in their history as any Ohio or New England pottery does. And until this time there was no rhyme nor reason to the markings, glazes or shapes.

In an interview, author Warren Payne said “Kentucky has a long history of pottery-making . From the crocks and jugs of the 19th century river trade to the sophisticated vases of the 1920s Selden-Bybee line, the commonwealth has been up to its knees in clay. As with many Southern states, the concept of “art pottery,” a concept very hard to nail down even among scholars, came later than it did to some East Coast and Midwestern potteries. But Kentucky’s art pottery hewed closed to a simple folk-inspired template that in its best examples reminds one of archaic Mediterranean and Asian forms. And I mean “simple” in the sense that the Shaker aesthetic, a Federal house, a Blanchard spoon [Asa Blanchard was a silversmith from Lexington, Kentucky], a dry-stone fence, that these demonstrate a simplicity that is terribly sophisticated. However, much of the literature on American pottery is hung up on the concept of pottery as canvas, something to be painted on or ornamented once you come up with your base glazes. I find this concept to be very Victorian, grounded in the Aesthetic Movement, and essentially dated. I look at some pieces of Rookwood, for example, and I know they would never really look good in my home, which despite our love of the old has been influenced by over a hundred years of spare, modernist thought. Yet the most basic piece of Kentucky art pottery fits in as though it were made for the space, as would virtually any piece of ancient Asian pottery. There’s a lesson there – and an appreciation for what was created in Kentucky under very difficult conditions.”

This book is an excellent start to a wide and diverse category. I say start because, as well written and researched as this book is, I still have more questions. The nearly untouched topic of Kentucky art pottery has the potential to have a book devoted to each chapter featured here in this work, a worthy suggestion I think. It is lavishly illustrated with high quality color photographs on high quality paper. The photographs are worthy of framing in their own right. The chapters are broken down into various fields of interest. Each chapter is written by a collector or scholar, so it gives you a first hand view of the workings of a collectors / scholars mind. Chapter topics include but are not limited to: “Waco Pottery” by Larry G. Hackley,” Louisville Pottery Company (Cherokee) ” by Stephen J. Lee and my personal favorite “Kenton Hills Porcelains” by Nick & Marilyn Nicholson. A very helpful feature is a series of pages scattered through several chapters titled The Bottom Line that show the various marks on what ever pottery is being discussed in that particular chapter. Though the vast majority of illustrations is well-captioned, there are several pages on which the photographs are not captioned. The necessary information regarding these photos is contained in the body of work but a novice Kentucky art pottery dealer / collector might need things pointed out a little more clearly. This is a minor detail in a great ground- breaking work. The text, although written in a scholarly manner, is easily read and understood.

This soft backed book with 119 numbered pages is published by the Cane Ridge Publishing House in Paris, Kentucky, with an edition of only 1000 copies. The book retails for $30.00 and is available on eBay, Carmichael’s bookstores in Louisville and at the book’s Web site:

http://www.caneridgepublishinghouse.com/clearasmud.html

There are plans are for it to be sold through Borders bookstores, book/gift shops and in such venues as The Louisville Stoneware Co., the Kentucky Museum of Art & Craft and Speed Art Museum in Louisville, KY, the Log House/Boone Tavern shop in Berea and at Lexington outlets.

This is sure to be a desirable and collectible book in the future. An enjoyable and educating read. This book is highly recommended for all lovers of Kentucky pottery and Kentucky decorative arts.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The Appraisers Secret Weapon

2010-05-20T07:41:00.000-07:00

Journal of Advanced Appraisal Studies

Todd W. Sigety Editor

I look forward each year to the professional publication. This year was extra special for myself personally and professionally. This 2010 edition contained the my first publication in a professional journal. This book if you are familiar with previous editions will not disappoint. I just finished it last night and was impressed with the various topics. I found several to be very useful and quite informative. A few of the topics that were covered are For Love or Money: Antiques as Investments, Appraisers v/s Authenticators, Personal Property Appraising, The Element of Time and Price Anomalies and Establishing the Appraisers Library ( which was my own work.) A few that really shed light on subjects that I don't normally study on were Reading a Two-Dimensional Artwork: Suggestions for the Generalist Appraiser and Folk Art for Appraisers both of these were just stellar and will be helpful in my career in the future. In fact anyone in the looking for the more serious aspects of this business will find all of these articles useful, meaningful and relevant to the current markets. This is a highly recommend work for the professional appraiser.

Remember Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself

Fancy is Fine

2010-03-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

Fancy Form and Flowers A Significant Group of Kentucky Inlaid Furniture. Exhibit catalog Headley-Whitney Museum, Lexington, Kentucky 2000.

This one is a little bit on the focused side for this general blog. But it was such a wonderful work that I thought that I had to list it and I love the Kentucky items. I know that Kentucky scholars will enjoy it and it should force students in other states to look into their own areas. It might even inspire someone to begin research. This exhibit took place in 2000 at the Headley-Whitney museum. It was in my opinion a landmark exhibit that at long last began to pull the study of Kentucky decorative arts into the light.

The exhibition curators were noted Kentucky decorative arts scholar and Assistant Professor at Eastern Kentucky University, Marianne P. Ramsey and Diane C. Wachs who was then director at the Headley-Whitney and now supervises the Furniture and Decorative Arts Department at Cowan Auctions in Cincinnati, Ohio.

This catalog features examples by an unknown craftsman working out of Garrard County, Kentucky circa 1800 - 1830. His construction, inlay and manner are so indicative to one workshop that Robert and Norma Noe have based a large portion of their collection on this individual. Yet again bringing to light the importance of Kentucky decorative arts.

Numerous high quality black and white illustrations show examples from the Noe and other private collections. 39 numbered pages, soft cover. Contains a small but highly important bibliography in the back. You may find this online but I had no luck in securing a current price. I've seen them sell on eBay for over $100.00. But I've been told that on rare occasions they make appearances at the Headley-Whitney gift shop for nominal prices. I highly recommend this book to anyone seriously studying Kentucky culture and arts.

Remember, Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself.

Style is The Season

2010-03-05T08:03:00.000-08:00

Twentieth-Century Decoration by Stephen Calloway

I'm not much for design. I prefer to study the object as opposed to its surroundings. But this book is a little different though. Chapters are broken into the various periods of the twentieth century. You'll explore staged and candid photos that range from the middle class to the upper ranks of royalty from all over the world. There are examples of artists renderings, representations of living from art works and stunning photographs. Each photo will have a caption that tells of the design and the designer. Sadly, just by its context, I don't get to find out the story of some piece that is featured. But that could be the same story with any other shelter book or magazine.

A lavish, quality volume with the vast majority of this book devoted to period black and white and some color photos. 408 numbered pages. Published by Rizzoli New York in 1988. I wouldn't quite say that its a must own for the appraiser but certainly worthy of reading, enjoying and living on your shelves. I was pleased that I got my x-libris copy from a library book sale. Hence the smudge on the cover. Amazingly, I found this online for under $25.00 to as high as over $200.00.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm yourself.

The Art of The Deal

2010-03-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

Duveen by S. N. Berham

What a story and a half that this guy was. And its all true! The incomparable Joseph Duveen. Likely the last of the great "robber" art dealers at the turn of the last century. This man dealt in million dollar deals in an age that most people couldn't comprehend such a figure. Duveen dealt with names like Mellon, Morgan, Rockefeller and Frick. More than art he dealt in illusions. He noticed that Europe had plenty of art and America had plenty of money. In his day he almost single-handedly controlled the art market. Another dealer's reputation could be destroyed in a matter of minutes if he crossed Duveen, or even if he didn't cross his path. Today many of his dealings are the fodder for legends. Many of those legends are now seen as being underhanded and downright dirty. The one that that I most hated to hear was that it was Joseph Duveen who was responsible for the chemical stripping of the Elgin marbles. What a tragedy.

This was a pleasurable read and a window into an art worked that no longer exists. This copy is a 1951 book club edition. Hard back with 302 pages. You can find numerous copies of this book online for well under $5.00.

Remember Knowledge is Power So Arm Yourself

A View of Sugar Chests

2010-03-02T13:01:00.000-08:00

Williamson County: More Than A Good Place to Live

by Rick Warwick

Anyone dealing with Southern decorative arts must read this book. Anyone dealing with sugar chests must read and own this book. A wonderful work the likes of which that I've not encountered before and on such an esoteric topic. This is a very regional book fro Williamson Count, Tennessee. But anyone with a love for a form as rare as the sugar chest will enjoy this book.

This book is basically divided into tow parts. The first 39 pages showcase local chars and baskets an their makers. The next part will be devoted to sugar chests and the last chapter will be featuring Williamson County samplers and coverlets. The sugar chests are somewhat well-photographed in black and white and, interestingly enough, show photos of the home and family i which they originated. The textile section is a very informative section, this time in color with brief but strong basic histories.

Published and designed by Panacea Press in 2005, this is a high quality hardback edition that I think was limited to this one edition only. Beautiful dust jacket. Loaded with black and white and color photos. Contains 215 numbered pages. Very scarce to find. I saw only one example online for $165.00. Expensive, but worth it for the advanced library.

The Auction Story

2010-02-23T09:13:00.000-08:00

Auctions The Social Construction of Value

by Charles W. Smith

If you are involved in any aspect of appraising you have to read this book. This was required reading when I was doing my advancement for the American Society of Appraisers (ASA). It is a great read. I think that it would appeal to anyone who enjoys auctions.

This covers the technical aspects of auctions with chapters like For How Much and to Whom?, The Primary Objective, Structures and Strategies and What Auctions Tell Us About Values. But my favorite was The Search For a Fair Price. This will cover little known information regarding the social, political and economic motives behind all auctions. Did you know that there are three types of auctions? Don't expect this to be a glossy, coffee table book. Its factual and too the point.

Soft bound with 225 pages published by University of California Press. I found numerous copies online for under $10.00. It is worth every penny. You should see my well thumbed copy as a testament.

Antiques Roadshow: Behind the Scenes

2010-01-04T10:43:00.000-08:00

An American TV Classic

This is an English hit transformed into an American passion. If Antiques Roadshow has done only one thing, and they have done many, one thing is that this TV show has changed the way that American Citizens look at antiques and collectibles. Before"Roadshow" people often thought nothings of removing a finish, cutting down legs, replacing parts of, in fact, just simply throwing it away.

Today, however, because of this show ans the appraiser who have been given icon status, people often pause to consider what an appraiser would say or do on "Roadshow' and this is a very good thing. I have to say that at first I was biased when it came to this book and the cult TV classic, thinking that the appraisals were pie in the sky estimates done more for showmanship as opposed to actual field work. All of that was laid aside when I turned the last page.

This book really gives a true behind the scenes look at how this show operates. You'll get a look at how the executive producer Marsha Bemko and her staff have worked to adapt the British TV show for the American market. You'll meet the appraisers and learn early childhood influences as to why they choose this career. The set-up requirements, security and lay-out of auditoriums are explained in a way that makes it easy to understand why "Roadshow" doesn't come to every town. Of course, you'll get information from all the past years' highlights of interesting objects and you'll receive follow-ups as to what happened to several items after the cameras shut off. You'll understand and appreciate the articles pertaining to the "watermelon sword" and the Poe image. One of many interesting topics was learning how objects are selected for the camera. One chapter that I loved was "Missing Masterpieces;" it focused on what various appraisers longed to have walk onto the set of "Roadshow."

I have to say that as an appraiser, the one chapter that excited me was the chapter titled "The Final Reality." This chapter gave easy step-by-step hints and information for people looking for appraisals. Though there was no mention of The Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), I thought that the information provided in this chapter was very useful and factual.

All in all, I found that this book was very enjoyable and informative and should be included on your book shelf. It is softbound, with 181 numbered pages, full color illustrations and loads of information. It had a MSRP of $16.99 and is available online and at your local booksellers.

Remember Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself.

Slight Delay

2009-11-30T07:28:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone,
I'm sorry but I've been tied up with loads of issues here at the store. Promise I'll be back in a few days with some great new reviews of books on antiques, collectibles and the like. Sorry for the delay. Check back soon.

Depression Glass Is Not Depressing

2009-10-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

The Collected Writings of

Gene Florence

Many appraisers would simply over look pieces of depression glass in an appraisal report. But I'm here to say that all appraisers should stop and take a look at the treasures that could be lurking in a cabinet. I agree that there are thousands of patterns and pieces that warrant little or no intrinsic value. But when you find those pieces that that do have value "Look Out." The study of depression glass is a fascinating topic. The term Depression Glass didn’t get its name until much later,When the first manufacturers decided to give this new glassware a try, they were hoping to start new trends, and they succeeded until the world started falling into the Great Depression. Depression glass is a great study about the backbone of the American glass industry.

One author, though there are several, that comes to my mind when I think of depression glass is that of Gene Florence. Mr. Florence is the most well known and published author in this field. His books which today run into the dozens of titles and literally hundreds of editions are invaluable to the study of this field. The latest editions sport great photos and an in depth history that you simply won't find anywhere. They do tend to lack in the area of bibliographies and references but I think that you can over look that for the great content that these books contains. And of course many will have "value guides" in the back but you should as always disregard these. The books in general I highly recommend to any appraisers book shelf. I myself and have the "Very Rare Glassware of the Depression Years" and "Elegant Glassware of the Depression Era" many many times.

Prices can run from the MSRP in the new books stores to a few dollars for older editions in second hand book stores and early collected editions can run upwards of $75.00 or more for certain titles and editions.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The Locals Know the Story

2009-10-09T07:21:00.001-07:00

The Importance of Local Books and Papers

This is something you that you as an appraiser just can't be with out. Often this category is overlooked. This is vitally important if you are the type of appraiser that works with regionally made decorative arts on a regular basis. These are the books that are written by local authors about local subjects. And yes your town will have some, I promise.

Lets use myself and my appraisal career for an example. I focus a lot of efforts on Kentucky and Southern decorative arts. Not just for appraisals but for the research papers that I manage to get out on occasion. I can't tell you how many times that I've investigated titles like "The Kentucky Encyclopedia" to find out more information on something that I'm working on. This investigative behavior will quickly separate the average appraiser from outstanding appraiser. It's amazing to discover for example that it would be very doubtful that a local cabinetmaker would have built, dated and signed a magnificent inlaid corner cupboard in July 1834. When you discover that 90% of his family had died in a cholera epidemic earlier in that year. It makes you think a little bit harder when you factor in what was happening at the time around your item/s.

Books that you should have on your shelves could be local and state history books, local and state genealogy books, books on historic houses in your area, early maps, catalogs from local museums, papers written by local historians about local craftsman and artists, newspapers collections of local stories, even postcards can be useful and if you use your imagination you can find numerous other inclusions to fit in here.

Now I know that we as appraisers are not authenticators but there are times that it is just necessary that you dig a bit deeper. Explore the area around you today.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Stillness & Light

2009-09-21T13:10:00.000-07:00

Stillness and Light: The Silent Eloquence of Shaker Architecture by Henry Plummer

I was quite surprised when I received this book to review. Surprised because I love to review new books and second I'm only about 7 miles away from Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Kentucky, the largest restored Shaker Village in the country. If you have never been to one of the few restored Shaker Villages scattered from New England to Kentucky, you should by all means go. There is just something about this particular religious sect and the way that they live that draws people in. A haunting simplicity, unparalleled grace in this hectic world. A respite for the cluttered eye.

This book will explore these features with incredible photos by Mr. Plummer. This book is published by Indiana University Press, Bloomington, Indianapolis. Hard backed with 134 pages printed on high quality acid free paper with a detailed bibliography that is noteworthy for study by appraisers and scholars of Shaker architecture and artifacts. It is the photographs that will be taking your breath away when you look at this volume. Though I've personally photographed several of these same shots, they naturally don't look anything like Henry's, no surprise there. His photos capture that ethereal light that literally flows through these buildings. The captions that accompany the photos explain in a simple, easy language of what we are looking at.

This volume has a MSRP of $39.95. This is a brand new book on the market and can be found in your local or national book stores. You might also check out this link to the Indiana Press University. http://www.iupress.indiana.edu/catalog/

I highly recommend this book for anyone who is appraising Shaker items or Shaker architecture of for those who simply love high quality art photographs. A welcome addition to your book shelves.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The New Art

2009-09-08T08:16:00.000-07:00

Collector's Guides: Art Nouveau by Judith Miller

Is there anything with the grace and color of a Tiffany lamp? Is there anything with the form of a Raoul Larche sculpture? If you answered no to any of these questions then you too appreciate the period of Art Nouveau.

If you are a long time reader of this blog you'll remember that I'm no fan of the price guide. Except when it comes to the works of Judith Miller. Just disregard those out of date values. This is one incredible book. Surprisingly I found on my public library book shelf. If you are a beginner to this field or a seasoned hand, you'll enjoy this book.

This American edition from 2004 is published by DK Publishing. It contains 240 pages with a very useful glossary, full index, a key source to codes of dealers, auction houses that either sold or is selling the items featured in this book. Thick, heavy, glossy paper is used in this book like all the book by Ms. Miller. All photos are in full color with excellent details shown. Chapters are broken down into contents like furniture, glass, textiles, jewelry, silver and metalware, pottery and several others. Each chapter will explore the great artists in each category. Scattered through out will be colored sections that will discuss form, helpful hints, fakes, signatures and key features. I just can't say enough about this great reference book on what can be a tricky subject.

I found this online at several locations for under $20.00. A worthwhile investment for your library.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Your Self.

A Master of The Arts

2009-09-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

Louis C. Tiffany, Glass-Bronzes-Lamps: A Complete Collectors Guide by Robert Koch

If you appraise on a regular basis, works by Louis Tiffany, this book is a must for your library. I think that everyone has the dream of discovering a piece of Tiffany. This book will help to arm you when that time comes. I enjoyed the period. price list, if only we could travel back in time. Incidentally these things weren't cheap for those living in 1906. Use the west egg inflation calculator for a real eye opener.

This 208 page, 1971, hard back edition is published by Crown Publishing New York. chapters include section on Tiffany history, paintings, windows, desk sets and an incredible interview with Jennings Stewart who was a long time glass gaffer with Tiffany Studios. The back includes an interesting price list from 1906. Sadly there is no bibliography or reference notes. All the photos are b/w and there are numerous catalog shots and interiors of work rooms. Frankly the photos are not great and lack the color and details of modern photoraphy.

I found this first edition online at several locations for $24.00-$40.00. There are dozens of later editions for well under $10.00. This is a great book that I recommend for all appraisers. A good value for your money.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself.

Duncan Phyfe A Classic Style

2009-08-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Duncan Phyfe and the English Regency 1795 - 1830

by Nancy McClelland

I've heard people say so often "my sofa is Duncan Phyfe' referring to a piece of furniture from the 1960's. Phyfe's style was the status quo for formal furniture back in the 1950's. The market is full of great, OK and horrible reproduction examples of machine made, cheap, mahogany wood furniture. This is a far cry from who the real man was and the incredible period furniture that he made.

This is a hard core research book not for the faint of heart. The definitive guide to Phyfe, his styles and traditions. It will explore Phyfe and his competitors and imitators. This book is a must for those who are currently appraising period furniture. Easy to read and follow. It'll cover the personal and cabinet making history of this talented man. With one of my favorite things being, the 1854 Duncan Phyfe shop inventory of the furniture that he made. Also included is an appendix showing typical Phyfe details, various records, and the genealogy of the Phyfe family.

This is one of my newest and currently favorite furniture books that I just got in a few weeks ago. This soft backed edition is published by Dover Publications. This edition is from 1980 but the original edition was a limited printing from 1939. Illustrated with 295 photographs,the photos are all b/w and are sadly not of good quality, but this was from 1939 so we're lucky to have any. Paper is a little on the inexpensive side.

You know I was shocked when I began to look for this 1980 edition online. I found only a few sellers that offered this book for under $30.00 and the prices quickly escalated up to $50.00 - $75.00 for this paper back edition. I highly recommend this book.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Your Self.

Weaving a Shaker Story

2009-08-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

Shaker Textile Arts by Beverly Gordon

Shakers are famous for the simple, elegant lines of their furniture. Did you know that they also were equally talented with weaving and the fabrication of textiles? Like the furniture the textiles also have that simple elegant appeal. It was literally from "sheep to shawl" to borrow an advertising phrase from an annual seminar held at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. What has always intrigued me is the fact that many Shaker communities, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill was one that produced silk fabric from their own worms. This book will feature examples of this and many others.

This is more of a scholarly approach to Shaker textiles. It might be too hard core for the beginner but when you need to have serious information about a serious piece then this the book you need to have. Unlike some Shaker books that I've reviewed in the past, this is an in depth look at Shaker textiles. You'll learn from beginning to the completed example how these things were made.

This soft back edition is a 1983 second printing published by the University Press of New England. Contains an overall general history, production of household textiles and clothing and personal accessories. Has an excellent glossary, fully indexed, excellent references and an outstanding bibliography. Numerous b/w photos and line drawings and many are period interior shots of several villages.

I found this online at several locations for well under $20.00 but some examples rose up much much higher.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The Story of Little Pink Roses

2009-08-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

Haviland China Identification Series

by Arelen Schleiger and family

If you have ever appraised Haviland china or think that you will, you must have these books! I purchased my set years ago from a local dealer who had passed away. She and a consigner dealt almost exclusively with Haviland china and I saw first hand the 1000's of patterns available. This is geared towards the old stock not the china that has a pattern name on the back like Rosalinde or Appleblossom, though these are featured in these books too. In a nut shell here is how all old Haviland companies operated.

They DIDN'T always use pattern names. Haviland was also famous for having.... lets say a pattern with pink roses and a plain blank (a blank is the actual shape of the plates and cups.) but they could have also had the same pink roses with a fancy blank or shape. They also could use the same pattern design and changed the pink to yellow. Thereby having the possibilities for many other different patterns. A real problem when you're trying to build a set.

In the 1940's Arlene Schleiger along with her son who did the art work, began to listed patterns and catalog them by numbers. You'll see a b/w illustration of part of a pattern and there will be a series of numbers... it'll look something like this. Now bear in mind that I've just made these up.

123 Pink roses with gold details, light green leaves, blue butterfly

123A Pink roses with gold details, dark green and brown leaves, blue butterfly

123B Yellow roses with gold details, brown leaves, red butterfly

123C Green roses with gold details, mint green leaves and no butterfly

Get the idea?

This can be very confusing as most people think that they their pattern is the only one that Haviland ever made. But these books are a God send for people that are completing a pattern or of course, for the appraiser. You'll have to look elsewhere if you want detailed Haviland company history or genealogy. These books are for and about the patterns and shapes only. Remember some of these patterns are going back to the 1860's.

Here is an outstanding link I just found that may help you out if I've not explained enough to you.

http://www.havilandonline.com/schleiger.htm

If you're going to appraise a lot of Haviland you need the set. A set runs from volume I - VI and there is a handbook of shapes that is invaluable. I found these online at several locations for under $20.00 each. All of these books are on fairly, inexpensive paper and are just spiral bound. The illustrations are always b/w line drawings. The illustrations in the later volumes are better drawn and larger. These books are highly recommended for any appraiser dealing in Haviland china.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself.

The Grandfather of All Antiques Publications

2009-08-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

The Magazine Antiques

There are many, magazines, newspapers and other periodicals that come to mind when you think of antiques. But in my opinion there are none that can compare with the age and classic features of The Magazine Antiques.

Since its inception in April of 1922 The Magazine Antiques has called the shots all along. A fore runner in the reporting of style and market trends and the bastion of all things "blue chip." Some have called it "elitist" or "high brow" I call it "knowing what you deal in."

One of my earliest memories of becoming involved in this field were from one of the old school dealers that I would visit, literally as a child. She always had a stack of old The Magazine Antiques on the floor next to her chair. When I inquired about whether they were for sale , she would reply " No, honey, I just read them and look at pictures over and over. It helps develop my eye." I thought that it made her eyes healthier, but I later discovered, it was helping to develop her connoisseur's eye. A habit that I continue with to this day. If you examine and study good items you'll spot them in the open market.

I have to admit that it is shocking that to see one of these magazines from the 1960's and compare it to one from today. Today's, as if you hadn't guessed is quite a bit thinner. But that's OK. Its the quality that matters, not the quantity. I know several scholars that somehow, secretly get a nod of approval from other collectors. Only because they own and use the entire run of The Magazine Antiques. Remember this has been out since 1922 and that creates quite a bit of weight on your shelves. But what a collection to have. I've still got a few decades to work on my self.

This is one magazine that I highly recommend you to get. Of course it is expensive but you might also utilize your public library to read this monthly copy. Of course, book sales, auctions and library fund raisers are ideal for scoping out these treasures. Because lets face it this kind of information never goes out of style.

They also have a great useful website with loads of information http://www.themagazineantiques.com/

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Your Self.

The Real One Has Only One "E"

2009-08-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

The Story of Wedgwood by Alison Kelly

You know, I would be hard pressed to come up with another porcelain company that has had as much written about it as Wedgwood has. There are literally dozens of titles on this company floating around out there. Some are little more than phamplets and some are huge volumes that span generations of years. This is one of my favorites. Simple, easy to use and follow and with great information. Covers all the great lines like bassalt, caneware and queen's ware. Features many rare examples of shapes and objects.

This 1975 edition is published by the Viking Press, NY. It contains 91 pages with nice quality b/w photos. Also contains an a couple of concise chapters on Wedgwood's history, select bibliography and a useful glossary. But its the chapter on marks that have used most often.

Now of course, there are other titles out there that are masterpieces of information. But if you need a quick reference book this is the one for you. Mind you not a beginners book but a slimmed down volume filled with the necessary information.

I found this book online in several locations for under $10.00. Well worth the price for a great reference book.

Remember, Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself.

More Than Just An Apple

2009-08-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

Watt Pottery Identification and Value Guide

by Sue & Dave Morris

You know at one time every kitchen had a piece of Watt pottery. Utilitarian but pretty. Strong but easy to handle. There were dozens of colors and patterns to choose from A truly American company. This is a must have for the appraiser who on a regular basis appraises American kitchen wares. What at one time was only a few dollars new, today can fetch on the secondary market hundreds of dollars.

This 1993 hard back edition is published by Collector Books out of Paducah Kentucky. Contains a value guide that you, as followers of my blog, should know that is out of date and should be ignored. Loaded with high quality color photos with some incredible shots of personal collections. Has a chapter on various patterns, a company history and is fully indexed. A good useful book that will be a plus on your bookshelves.

I found this online at several venues for under $15.00.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Great New Appraisers Blog Site

2009-08-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

I was graciously asked by my friend Todd sigety of Alexandria VA to write off and on for his new personal property appraisal blog. Appraisers check it out and be sure to subscribe. This is the first article that I've written on this site and I'm excited about its topic. There are loads of relevatn and interesting subjects and all about the appraisal of personal property. The other listed authors are literally a dream team of personal property appraisers, I feel very honored.

http://appraiserspost.blogspot.com/2009/08/establishing-your-appraisal-library.html

A Tale of The Bayou

2009-08-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

Newcomb Pottery: An Enterprise For Southern Women 1895 - 1940 by Jessie Poesch

This was many years ago, when I was just getting into the business.

Picture it... A local auction in small historic town, wonderful antiques, loads of people, one very large vase with Spanish moss on it and said vase sold for the jaw dropping price of $400.00. Yep my first experience with Newcomb Pottery. Wish that I knew then what I know now. Newcomb was in its inception a high quality hand crafted product. Today it continues to rise to higher and higher levels.

This is my favorite reference for Newcomb Pottery. Not a huge book but a book written from the eye of a scholar. This is naturally by one of my favorite published. Published by Schiffer in 1984, this soft back edition contains 160 pages with high quality b/w and studio photos. Many great shots from the work rooms. Contains a listing of the craftsmen and potters, a section of marks and makers. Appendix A tells of plants depicted, select bibliography, full index and a GREAT chronological time line. This is a highly recommend book for anyone who appraises art pottery on a regular basis.

I found this edition online at several locations for under $20.00. The cost of a fair pizza will get you a great useful title on your shelf.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Jack and The Candlestick

2009-08-03T13:32:00.000-07:00

Candlesticks by Geoffrey Wills

Candles for centuries have lit the night shrouded rooms. Often a mans measure of success was measured by the number of candles his family made or bought in a year. Of course you had to have something to put those expensive candles in.

Is there anything more classic than a pair of candlesticks? Well this book is like that. Classic but not always useful today. I can't quite put my finger on this one. I've owned this copy for years and have referenced it several times. Sure it will cover in numerous pages different types of candlesticks. Brass, enamel, glass, silver and several others. The illustrations are mostly b/w with a few color ones thrown in. This part is fairly redundant and honestly you can find more serious titles out there on the candlesticks. Most are strongly English in origins.

But you shouldn't get this book for that. You should include this on your shelf for the incredible chapters on manufacture, origins, and the one that I love, candles. You'll have to look long and hard to find anything on period candles. NOT the candlesticks but the actually candles. A great read on the early manufacture of candles. Highly recommended for this aspect only. Mr. Wills has written dozens of other books in his career and I'll be reviewing others in the future.

This hard backed 1974, copy is published by Clarkson N. Potter Inc., New York and contains 120 pages. I found this edition on line at several venues for under $20.00. I recommend this book for those who appraise candlesticks on a regular basis and want an in depth look behind the scenes.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Love Is Like Linen

2009-07-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

The Book Of Fine Linen by Francoise de Bonnevelle

“Love is like linen; often changed, the sweeter.”

A wise quote and quite true. I have to admit that I haven't dealt much in linens. For me personally here in the store, they require a lot of up keep. When you deal with the general public, they often get soiled by hands and dropped onto the floor. Though I certainly appreciate the hard work that goes into them and the history behind them.

Linens have since the times of the Egyptians have held a special part in the lives of early man. The bible is full of snips about the importance of linens, dyed, plain or embellished. There was high regard put upon a young lady's hope chest. Woe be to the man who selected for a bride a woman who didn't know how to care for the linen cupboard.

Do not get this book thinking of the cute kitchen towels that date to the 1950's or of your grandmothers linen table cloth. Unless your grandmother was a Rockefeller or the like. This is a serious informative book on the history, development, care and folk lore associated with fine linens.

This Hard back edition from 1994 is published by Flammarion and contains 208 pages. The preface is by Marc Porthault, whose family still manufactures uber luxury linens. Broken into chapters like Trousseau, Care taking Through the Ages, Techniques and Ornamentation among others. Lavish full color and b/w photos, that show scenes about linens through the ages go from front to back. Thick heavy paper with a stunning dust jacket. Contains an excellent glossary, in depth bibliography and is fully indexed.

I found this on several online sites. But it costs dear. I saw one edition for $75.00 and they traveled up to over $300.00. so don't invest in this is you only have a passing interest in linens. However if you on a regular basis appraise high end or historical household linens you'll at some time need this book.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Your Self

Interests

2009-07-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

If anyone has any particular topic they'd like for me to cover, just let me know. I'll be happy to comb through my library and find some of your passionate subjects.

Gems of Wisdom

2009-07-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

Gems: A lively Guide For The Casual Collector by Daniel J. Dennis Jr.

You know I almost made a jeweler many years ago. But the store I worked in as a teenager closed when the jeweler / co-owner died and the business closed. I was always drawn to the study of gems and jewelry. Its a very very rich history full of geography, science, customs, murder and mystery. There is nothing like the color of gem stones. No wonder they were thought to hold special powers in the ancient days. Some books on this subject really are geared towards the GIA graduate. Not this one. I feel that this would be a great book for someone even not in the appraisal or jewelry fields. Even if you don't handle fine jewelry this is a good book to have on hand.

This 1999 hard back edition is published by Harry N. Abrams Inc. Publishers. Contains 192 pages that are easy to read and not in a preachy way either. Loads of high quality color photos. These shots are tight and close up so you get a real feel for what the stones look like. Thick heavy paper and filled front to back with history, legends, characteristics , properties and various types of well known and lesser known stones. Numerous pages of in depth study on stones. Contains chapters on birthstones, mohs scales, a glossary of terms, care and cleaning and a nice recommended reading list. Highly recommended.

I found this online at several sources for under $10.00 a bargain!

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself.

The Genesis of Kovel

2009-07-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

Kovels New Dictionary of Marks Pottery & Porcelain 1850 - present by Ralph and Terry Kovel

This is literally the start of an empire. Ralph and Terry Kovel began to collect antiques when they started to furnish their first apartment. They bought porcelains at house sales and tried to decipher the marks on the bottom of each piece, but the only available reference books were written for experts and were of little help. Ralph Kovel began to assemble a list of marks and makers they had discovered. The list grew grew until it turned into the Kovels' Dictionary of Marks - Pottery & Porcelain: 1650-1830, which was published in 1953 and has gone through more than 43 printings since then. That was the start of it all. Following in later years was this title, that I've reviewed today and dozens and dozens more titles to add to their publishing lists.

If you've read my blog for a while you'll know that I don't put much faith into price guides for the professional appraiser. But this is one is amongst several titles by the Kovel's that belongs on every appraisers shelf. Yes, I have to say that this is kind of a beginners guide. A good "look here first" book. It's laid out in a handy way by shapes like crowns, shields and the like and an A - B listing. Hand drawn b/w sketches show the marks in question. But the marks that I looked up never seemed to fit just right. That's not the Kovel's fault its just that this isn't an exact science when it comes to markings. But here is what I love about this book hands down. Its the great chapters in the back that cover necessary information like company histories with dates, a glossary of words used in pottery and porcelain and two pages of the English registry marks explained out in easy to use language. These last chapters are worth the price of this book and yes, I've used them in my bibliographies several several times. Fully indexed with a well developed bibliography towards the back.

This 1986, 290 page, hard covered edition was published by Crown Publishers and has had numerous updates. Is this the end all book on identification? No, but its a good start. I found this title in this edition on line for under $6.00.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Tale of Tennessee Silver

2009-07-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

Tennessee Silversmiths

by Benjamin Hubbard Caldwell Jr.

I've got a passion for Southern decorative arts and this fits right in there. I have to admire the authors of these regional books. They show such passion and an undying quest for knowledge. This title is much like another favorite of mine Kentucky Silversmiths that I've already reviewed a few months back. This is just like it except for the grand state of Tennessee. Caldwell a noted collector and obviously a scholar. An incredible book. Loaded with alphabetical listings of the silversmiths, valuable researched information and nice quality b/w photos and reproductions.

This 1988 edition Published by The Museum of Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA), contains 216 pages is fully indexed with extensive notes and two appendices. I Highly recommend this book for anyone who handles or appraises Southern silver on a regular basis.

I found this online at several sites for as low as $28.00 to upwards over $100.00. This can be bought regularly on eBay for $50.00.

To Collect or Not To Collect

2009-07-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

How To Collect: A Complete guide to the Art of Buying, Displaying, Preserving, Protecting and Selling Your Collection. by Carole G. Rogers

People have collected since time in memorial. Whether it was a caveman collecting shells or pretty stones or the French nobility hoarding paintings. People collect, its just our nature. This is an interesting book not a great one and as a matter of fact one that you could do without. Its most redeeming quality are the front chapters that tell of how man began to collect. There are other more in depth and serious books on the proper way to store and display items. This is just a good start. All the chapters reflect those that are in the title, buying, selling,displaying etc. Now I know that we as appraisers aren't advocates, restoration experts or decorators but our clients will ask us from item to time what to do. This is a good beginner's book to start to arm yourself with when those questions arise.

This soft backed edition published by E. P. Dutton contains 112 pages. Is fully indexed and contains a select bibliography in the back.

I found this online as several sources for under $8.00. Its a good book to have on hand, but I wouldn't pay too much for it.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Old Macdonald Had a Vase

2009-07-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

Macdoanald Guide To Buying Antiques: Pottery & Porcelain

by Rachael Feild

This is a very good book for the beginner in the field of appraisal and for purchasers. This is in its truest form a field guide. In fact I cut my teeth on this one many years ago. Don't get this book if you're looking for serious scholarly information on a particular company. Its a kind of how to identify type book. But it belongs on every appraisers shelf no matter what your level of skill.

The study of pottery and porcelain can be a quagmire for the beginner and this book will help to straighten your mind out. There are so many different types of porcelain that it does get confusing, especially for the novice. I love how that its laid out. The various chapters are laid out by TYPE of pottery or porcelain, like caneware, Wedgewood, agate, Worcester, fabulous birds and on and on. Usually each section takes up two pages and on those pages it will be a brief history, materials and decorations, reproductions, variations and a value listing that part should be disregarded as its in pound sterling and hopelessly out of date anyway. This hard backed, 1987 edition was published by Wallace Homestead Book Company in Pennsylvania.Though this book is published by Wallace is based in Great Britain so you'll not see any American pieces. All the photos are b/w and are on the small size. Contains an invaluable timeline and an index of shapes, ample glossary and a few pages on very very basic marks. a select bibliography and is fully indexed. Towards the front there is a very useful chapter on bodies and pastes that I've referenced many times.

I highly recommend this to anyone who deals with pottery and porcelain or is beginning to. Ms. Field has written several other equally good books on the decorative arts that I'll review sometime in the future. I found this online at several locations for well under $10.00.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So arm Yourself

A Feather In Your Cap

2009-07-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

Collector's Guide To Feather Edge Ware: Identification and Value

by Lisa S. McAllister

I have a couple of friends of mine that are professional archaeologists that have let me as an amateur work with them on some local sites. Do you know what shard (broken crockery) is almost always found? Feather edge ware. Feather edge ware is a common artifact that is always found in shovel tests and the more extensive digs. Because it was made for the common man. Though today it brings high prices at shows it was meant for average household use. These pieces are some of the most classic patterns that you can display in your period homes today. I appreciate the simple but timeless looks of this pattern. I actually use for country ham a large feather edge platter I bought locally, you can still use it today.

I'm a big Lisa McAllister fan and her promotion of early ceramics, though I've never even met her. I've heard Lisa's name mentioned all the way back to the time when the Lancaster Antique Market in Garrard County, Kentucky, was a major force in the antiques business back in the 1980's through the early 1990's. I've followed her in the pages of Maine Antique Digest and read all of her books for years. So yeah I'm a big fan. If you're not familiar with Lisa and you like early crockery, this is a good starter book for you. This 2001 edition soft back edition was published buy Collectors books out of Paducah KY. Contains 92 pages loaded with high quality color studio photos. Towards the back of the book there is the a select bibliography, a handy chronology of the different edges, Company histories with major producers. The whole book is broken into various chapters like ladles, bowls and platters etc. It does include in the captions a value guide that I would disregard as the market for us appraisers has changed so drastically through the years. I highly recommend this book as well as the other numerous books that Lisa has written.

I found this online at several locations for under $10.00 and up. Worth every dime!

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Sleep Tight

2009-07-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

Small Endearments: Nineteenth Century Quilts for Children and Dolls by Sandi Fox

I don't think that there is anything more American than the quilt. Nothing is even more so touching than when you combine quilts with children. To think that a child used or slept under a tiny rendition of an adults quilt is touching. A labor of love at a time when the morality rate of small ones were incredibly high. Add to the fact that small quilts often tax the quilter with tinier stitches and piecing. Well heeled people often had quilts in fine fabrics in the latest patterns. Poorer people just made due with strip quilts or the simple nine patch. Both are worthy of study and preservation. These are miniature versions of the full sized quilts in minute detail.

Don't get this book expecting a cute Mary Engelbreit type affair. This is a serious study for scholars. Easy to read and retain. This soft back, 1994 second edition by Rutledge Hill Press contains 209 pages. filled with high quality color and b/w studio shots and some wonderful period photos showing these children's quilts in use. Chapters are broken down into various categories like Botanicals, Animals & pets and a great section on Doll quilts. Highly recommend for anyone who handles textiles.

I found this online at several locations for $8.00 to $12.00 for the soft back edition and the hard back copies were running for significantly more.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

You Get What You Pay For

2009-07-05T11:37:00.001-07:00

Cheap, Online Appraisals

I'll try to be brief about this today as this isn't a book review but it's something that concerns me. I've had this subject brought to my attention several times in the past few days. Cheap, online quick appraisals. Anyone who deals professionally in this business knows that there really isn't any such animal. Sure an online appraisal might serve as way to find out about an piece that you're curious about. But only consider it as a fun experiment, as it could wind up costing you thousands of dollars. Especially if you're dealing with a slippery appraiser.

Appraising be it for personal property, real property, machinery and equipment or any number of several types of disciplines, know that it's not cheap, quick and certainly not on line. Appraisal is a serious, professional business and should be treated as so. One site that I've seen many times over the past few days states that for a low subscription fee you may submit photos of objects that need "valuing" and the members of that online community tell you what its worth. Wow that's kind of scary. Remember we as appraiser's who belong to appraisal groups have committed ourselves to the fact that we MUST be independent, unbiased and impartial. Do you think that you're neighbors in the online appraisal world know to do this and even then will they abide by it?

One podcast that I listen to on a regular basis states that with a photo they'll be glad to verbally appraise an item for IRS charitable donation or insurance coverage. Hmmm, that's interesting, as the IRS or an insurance agency won't accept a verbal appraisal for a tax deduction or insurance coverage. How could they?

Am I just being sour grapes here? Am I worried that these sites will steal my business away from me? No of course not. I know that the people and clients that use my services won't be swayed by a cheap quick appraisal. They know "that you get what you pay for." What concerns me are the unsuspecting people who are in stressful or dire conditions. People that don't know or understand how or why an appraisal works. so I just want to warn people to be careful. Sure an online appraisal might be for fun, but when you need an appraisal for a valuable item or serious circumstances contact a professional in your area. Below I've included but am not limited to this small, small list of red flags for people new to having an appraisal done.

An Appraiser Should Not...

1. Offer to buy an item. Period ! If they want to buy it they should NOT appraise it. Seek another appraiser if they try to do so and quickly!
2. Offer to charge their fee to you based on a percentage of the total of the appraisal.
3. Endorse or advocate a purchaser, insurance company or anything in fact. Remember they need to be impartial.
4. Offer to exchange with you an item/s in lieu of payment for an appraisal.
5. Offer to do an appraisal over the phone or computer. Even with photos present. They must handle and examine an item in person, to be able to determine the actual condition.
6. Disclose personal and / or confidential facts about other appraisals or clients. If they do it to them, they'll do it to you.

I'll talk on this topic more in the future. Thanks for your time today.

Remember, Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Tennessee Waltz

2009-07-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

Arts & Furniture of East Tennessee by Namuni Hale Young

I love these catalogs about Southern regional furniture, in fact I like anything about the south. This is a must have for anyone who deals in southern decorative arts. Incredible reference points to Tennessee furniture, Some of the most unusual examples. Including those high style pie safes. It covers case goods, looking glasses, tables, and some very nice pieces of art that could have held its own it a separate showing. I'm pleased to see that many examples resemble those of Kentucky. A nice touch is that they list the genealogy of these pieces a bit that is often overlooked in some catalogs. The front has an introduction from C. Tracy Parks who was co - author of the now famous Art and Mystery of Tennessee Furniture.

This soft backed catalog was published by East Tennessee Historical Society in 1997. Contains 113 pages and is fully indexed. Most of the photos are b/w with the furniture and fine arts openings having a few pages of color shots. Sadly these color shots are a little grainy and out of focus.

I found several copies of this title online. Prices ranged from as low as $78.00 to as high as $275.00. Remember when it comes to these small / limited printings to get them when you can. This is a perfect example, as a friend of mine stole this copy at a local show. I had to borrow this edition but I'll be looking for a copy for my own library. Very recommended for those researching Southern items.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Paper or Plastic?? Neither a Basket Please.

2009-07-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

Baskets & Basket Makers in Southern Appalachia

by John Rice Irwin

This hit me some time ago and I think that its amazing to think about. Plastic grocery bags are what baskets were one hundred years ago. Baskets held just gathered produce, eggs, cotton, feathers, bread dough, sewing, knitting you name it and a basket carried it. I love the elegant Nantucket Lightship and the Shaker tourist baskets. But there is nothing like the work worn, thick handled and ultra strong baskets of the south and Appalachia in particular. This book is a wonder to look at and study from. The chapters are laid out with titles like materials, techniques and regions. Spread across the pages are where these baskets were used and might have originated. This book gives you a first hand look at how these baskets were made and more importantly who made them.

This soft bound 1982 edition is by Schiffer Publishing and contains 191 pages. But its the photos that again just win me over. Done in the style of Doris Ullman of the 1920's. In fact several are actual images from the turn of the last century. All are b/w candid photos of the artisans (both men and women), their homes and almost step by stem photos of how these baskets are made. Sadly I didn't see any credit given for the photographs, perhaps it was the author. I'm sure that like Ms. Ullman that many of these subjects have long since gone as is their lifestyle. Scattered around are various interviews of the makers that tell how important these baskets were to their people and work. Full indexed and contains a select bibliography.

I highly, highly recommend this important book to anyone who loves, uses or appraises old baskets or objects from the South. I found this title online at several locations for under $12.00. It's worth double that.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Tisket A Tasket A Tiffin Glass Basket

2009-06-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

Tiffin Glass 1914 - 1940

by Leslie Pina and Jeffrey Gallagher

A long long time ago I thought that Tiffin and Tiffany were one in the same. Was I ever wrong and that is not in a negative sense. Tiffin was and to a degree still is an original American company. Excellent colors and incredible designs and patterns.

This book is a wonderful reference and by one of my favorite publishers Schiffer. This hard back was first published in 1996 with 191 pages. Mostly color photos with some b/w catalog reprints. This does have a value listing but again I would disregard that. Contains a small bibliography in the back and is fully indexed. Broken down into easy to use categories like Crackle, Satin and also by location that it was used in.

If you handle on a regular basis Tiffin or other high quality American glass manufacturers I highly recommend this book. I found this easily online for under $17.00 and up.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

If You Can Find It... It Means You Stored It Correctly

2009-06-27T12:06:00.000-07:00

Essentials In Your Library #1: Shelving

This will be an important blog today. You can have the greatest library in the world, but if you can't find that particular volume then your library is worthless. The number one thing you must have when starting this business is this.

1. Some type of strong, proper storage / shelving.

As this blog grows I'll explain that there will be several other "must have" items that you'll need in this business. You might be starting your appraisal career with a dozen volumes or you might be established and have a library of thousands of titles. Either way you've got to have proper storage / shelving. Our ultimate goal is to have our own place. I understand this is not always possible. The author Virginia Wolfe is quoted as saying that "she hoped in the future that all women would have a room of their own." That's what we as appraisers should strive for. Our own room, our own place, to store our work. Be creative with where you're at right now. You might want to start with a book shelf or a book case in a corner of a room. Explore the options of a finished basement, under a staircase or an unused guest room. What ever you go for make sure that your shelving is strong! Sure right now it can hold a dozen books but what about in the future? What about when you collect several hundred? All book cases, shelves or units MUST be firmly bolted to the wall into masonry or wood studding.

DRY WALL IS NOT SECURE FOR BOLTING! ( I know this one... OK)

Make sure that ALL shelving is strong and re enforced on the sides. An extra feature, but one that I don't really like are adjustable shelves. Just make sure that these are also strong and preferably lock into the sides with slots. Cute little tabs on the sides to hold the shelf up, will not cut it for very long.

If you're lucky enough to have someone to build you a book case. Go immediately and find the tallest book in your collection and add half an inch to it and make that for at least one section the height of your shelves. I went to a lot of trouble to have a book shelf made only to find that the shelves hold only a little taller than a modern novel. So some of my tall books have to lay sideways. It's not good for the book and its looks sloppy.

Don't be tempted to let others infiltrate your empty shelves with their cook books, toys glassware or other things. You'll need that space one day. Remember this is your space, fight for it.

One last point. We all have seen the shelter magazines with beautiful book cases with plants, clocks, globes, sculpture and the like sitting on the shelves with the books. Save that for your living room. This is your WORKING LIBRARY. Sure you can make it pretty but tuck small things on top of or in front of your books, not in place of your books. The object is to store your books not your collections. More to come later on the essentials in your library.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself.

Shake, Shaker Shake

2009-06-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

Shaker Furniture Makers
by Jerry V. Grant &
Douglas R. Alton

This is a great book for your reference library. Now you know that I have a penchant for Shaker items being I'm so close to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. Sadly this book doesn't cover too much in the like of the Kentucky Shakers. It does has chapters on Robert Jones of South Union, KY and Samuel Humphrey Turner who helped to take charge of South Union and Pleasant Hill in Kentucky for over 28 years.

This hard back volume is broken down into various chapters on the known Shaker furniture craftsmen. It contains strong histories of these men and their villages. Published in 1989 by University Press of New England, Hanover & London. Contains 180 pages, is fully indexed, has a nice bibliography and an impressive section of notes. Numerous b/w photos of the craftsmen, their furniture and general shots of the places in which they worked.

This is very much recommended for those who love or deal in Shaker furniture and decorative arts. I found this online at several locations for under $12.00.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

To Be Cool Like Janeway

2009-06-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

Booked To Die by John Dunning

I know that this is a work of fiction... well, kind of, I'll explain more later. Either way its a super read for anyone who loves a good mystery and books. Perfect for summers on the porch or late nights in the A/C. Book people (and I'm one of them) tend to be hard to impress when it comes to the theme of a book store. We tend to be more than a little critical towards folk who aren't "book people" when they write about our world.

I have to tell you that this book and series will not disappoint. This is the first appearance of Cliff Janeway in a series of I think four mysteries by John Dunning. Cliff is a real knock down, drag out, love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy. A hard core former cop with lots of worldly experiences and a passion for books especially American lit. But its the little subtle things that just bowl me over in this series. This is where it becomes a little bit like non -fiction. Mr. Dunning gives hints and tips in the book trade like no other book that I've read. Two characters will discuss various points in various edition of Mark Twain novels. And he's correct as the author John Dunning is an antiquarian book dealer. There is much talk of points, issues, book club editions and I could just go on and on. "What's a point?" you ask? You'll have to read and find out. The author does put a small disclaimer in the front regarding pieces quoted in the book too.

The entire series stays strong until the last book which begins to soften just a bit. And frankly, I'm sorry but I just don't care for John Dunnings other novels without Cliff Janeway, my hero.

Several years ago this first novel in the DJ signed by the author was commanding in the high hundreds of dollars. You can easily find this mystery in many editions for under $6.00. Its a good read especially for book dealers and lovers.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Silver Lining in Kentucky

2009-06-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

Silver In Kentucky Life 1780 - 1870: An Exhibition Honoring The Bicentennial Year of Transylvania University

If you appraise on a regular basis Kentucky coin silver this is yet another title that you need to have in your library. There is nothing like the soft warm glow of coin silver. And in Kentucky it is collected with a rabid passion. The exhibit opened at the Bodley House in Gratz park in Lexington, Kentucky in May of 1980 and is likely one the best Kentucky silver exhibition catalogs that you can find. Not that there have been dozens of exhibits in the past, but this is a good strong example.

Examples of silver were collected from the premier collections in the state. Collections that today may be broken up or now reside in museums or institutions. This catalog features strongly the works of Blanchard, Stewart and Garner & Winchester among others.

Laid out alphabetically it gives a listing of some of the silversmiths of Kentucky. Some have photos of their works and some do not. I have several reservations to this catalog. One is that there is not a lot of history regarding the silversmiths, but this was not the time nor the place for such things and the photos coordinate with the exhibit of course but are haphazard in the catalog, so a photo will be on page 4 but the description will be on page 39. But over looking these very trivial things, it is a great study guide. Remember this is not a definitive guide but catalog listing of an exhibit. In other words there are more scholarly works out there in regards to research.

This volume contains an introduction from Mark Boultinghouse whose definitive book on Kentucky coin silver is one I've reviewed before. Contains a selected bibliography and has a nice Makers Marks section with some very good photographs. This catalog with 62 numbered pages is fragile and breaks in the middle with little effort. So bear that in mind when buying one. I found a copy on line at bookfinder.com for a little over $100.00 so it can cost dear. But its a nice addition to your Kentucky reference shelf.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Shaker Village Show & Building CE's

2009-06-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill Kentucky 7th Annual Antiques Show

I went to one of my favorite antiques shows this morning. As usual it was outstanding. From this vantage point the market looked very strong with a comfortable number of shoppers early this morning with a massive flush after 12:00. This is an upscale country show and it did not disappoint. Many well known dealers and collectors from across the country came to shop, talk and display their wares. The only downside that I saw was the couple that sold the crab cakes weren't there this year. But the food booth that they did have was excellent! The best limeade ever!

For more information on the show and other upcoming events at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill click here... http://www.shakervillageky.org/

Building and Recording Continuing Education Points

OK, so this is not a book but I'm going to use it to make a serious point. As appraisers we know that CE's stand for Continuing Education. The vast majority of us appraisers must record so many hours per year to show due diligence towards keeping our selves fresh and current in the market. You want your doctor or dentist to attend the latest medical seminars don't you?? Well appraisers should do the same thing. This is were your library should come into play. You should have a folder labeled CE's and the current year on the front and every time you attend a lecture, seminar, show / gallery opening or anything of the like in your field, record it in this file. Usually what I do is I collect something from the event, promoters always have something like a handout, flyer or catalog to give out. So collect one and underline or highlight the title and date, then write somewhere on the front the time that you arrived and the time I left the event.

Sorry but you can't count travel time to or from the event, only the time that you are there.

It's nice if you can do a little introduction to a speaker or lecturer and have them to sign it. Be sure to explain why you're doing this or they will think of you as an autograph hound. But at the end of the year you'll be surprised to see how many of your precious hours that you've spent in keeping up with the market. Remember this stuff counts so keep track of it !

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Hoosier Is More Than a Cabinet... It Was A Movement

2009-06-19T08:28:00.000-07:00

The Hoosier Cabinet In Kitchen History

by Nancy R. Hiller

I have to admit that this was nothing like what I had anticipated. Do not get this book if you are looking for a book to tell you about simple facts or features of the uniquely American hoosier cabinet.

This is a serious scholarly work on the kitchens of the past and future. I was in fact amazed over this volume. I never gave it any thought but the hoosier cabinet... the same cabinet in our grandmothers kitchens, was in fact a movement towards women's liberation from the kitchen. It totally changed the way that women prepared food and dealt with the advancements of modern society. In today's terms I place it in the same category as when Jane Jetson pushed a button on the counter top and out popped a complete, hot meal. This cabinet was really that ground breaking. Up until that time kitchens were dark, poorly laid out and inhabited by only sweaty, cranky women, who were literally slaves in this dungeon.

This hard back edition was published in 2009. Contains 144 pages with numerous color and b/w illustrations and old magazine reprints. Easy to read if you know what to expect. Though at times it does drag a little bit as most passionate works tend to do. This was a fascinating read about the social structure of the early kitchen and its women. Nancy Hiller is a cabinet maker who has been published in several period design and woodworking magazines. Remember this is a title that you might not think belongs on your appraisal shelves, but it does indeed help you to understand the structure and workings of the early days in the kitchen. Very recommended.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Light Unto My Path

2009-06-18T09:06:00.000-07:00

Student Lamps of The Victorian Era

by Richard C. Miller and John F. Solversen

Lamp trends tend to come and go. Years ago the ornate English banquet lamps were highly collected but now are a hard sell and prices and interests have very much dropped. People tend not to collect items that today are considered fussy and hard to use. Have you ever tried to read from one of these types of lamps. Can't say that about student lamps. They changed the field of lighting. Allowing a clear, unobstructed light to illuminate a desk or table. Even today I'm not surprised to see student lamps in more modern interiors, country and Victorian settings and just the average home. They are classics.

This volume showcases the cream of the cream of student lamps. Did you know that Louis Comfort Tiffany made student lamps? Not manufactured for very long but they are well represented here, as are the Harvard and Manhattan lamps. From the fancy to the plain from single lights to the rare three light units meant for libraries. This writing contains numerous pages of manufacturers and their wares, several excellent pages of the different types and colors of shades and chimneys', several line drawings showing exploded views of different types of student lamps and several pages of great history on these lamps and a brief time line of lighting. Everything in this book is easy to read and understand even for the novice. You can always tell when your dealing with passionate collectors. This does contain a "value guide" which again I would disregard BUT surprisingly some of the prices have held true for the rare examples.

This soft back edition published by Antique Publishers in 1992, has 176 pages with mostly color and some b/w illustrations and reprints of old catalogs. If you on a regular basis deal with appraising period lighting you need this book. It'll be an excellent reference book for your shelves. Only one draw back to this tidy volume. It runs pretty expensive. Online the cheapest that I could locate was for $74.00 and through my favorite book sites they soared upwards to well over $170.00! Keep an eye open on eBay too. It is worth the investment.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Tea For Two??

2009-06-16T11:21:00.000-07:00

Collectible Cups & Saucers

Identification & Value Guide Book IV

by Jim and Susan Harran

OK, now not all of these books featured here are mine. This one I happened to see at my public library in the new section and thought that I would check it out and review it.

Tea has been a habit among the gentry and the common man for centuries. It's equipment and customs are legendary in the orient as well as in Anglo communities. I prefer mine room temperature, dark and very sweet.

This I have to say is a strange book. Lavish, heavy but pretty much NOT useful for appraisers. You can tell that this took years of dedicated research on the parts of Mr. and Mrs. Harran, but I can't imagine three other volumes like this one. Published by Collectors Books out of Paducah Kentucky in 2009. Contains many, many of the most famous names in porcelain , pottery, silver and retail venues. This volume is broken down into various chapters like Cabinet Cups & Saucers, American Cups & Saucers, English Cups & Saucers with introductions and histories in the front of each chapter. Still I found that for my needs it was confusing and lacked fresh information. However in the back that was one good sized chapter that was excellent. It told of the Oriental tea ceremony and various reigns and periods of Oriental porcelains. This was really useful and very interesting.

Contains 447 pages. pages that are literally covered in lush full color. I did notice that several of the photos were slightly to very out of focus. This book though a soft back was very heavy a little over 3 pounds and that really made it hard to hold. It also contains a great bibliography in the back and is fully indexed. Again even though this is very current book I would still disregard the value guides contained in each photo's caption.

All in all I would state that this book is not for appraisers but would be greatly enjoyed by people that collect and use tea equipment. Would make a nice nice gift for a formal tea drinker.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Rug Maker's Dream

2009-06-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

Oriental Rugs: a Complete Guide by Charles W. Jacobsen

You know I love the look and feel of an oriental rug, but I have to admit that I'm afraid of them. Not the rugs actually but the process of compiling data and submitting a report. I've got friends that tell me often that "once you handle them for a while, it gets easier." But the techniques, regions, symbols and materials all kind of leave me puzzled. This book is here to help though. I have to say that even with the early date of 1962 this book is a very well known and respected volume in this field and honestly Mr. Jacobsen does make it much easier. But this is a serious scholarly read folks, this should not be thought of as light reading. I can only imagine the years that it took to assemble this research.

Broken down into several large chapters with topics covering such things as regions, patterns / designs, countries and . But what I really enjoyed as the alphabetical listing of regions and what that region was famous for, what colors, what techniques were utilized and the availability at the time.

This hard back edition was published by Charles E. Tuttle Company in 1962 with 479 pages with sadly mostly b/w photos with only a few full color shots with not true to life colors, as was common. But the photos are nice quality and everything is printed on good paper.

I found this book listed on line at bookfinder.com for under $5.00. THAT is a bargain. Even if you don't read it and just look at the photos. That is a good deal for any level of an appraiser's book shelf.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The One You Must Read !

2009-06-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

Journal of Advanced Appraisal Studies 2008 edition

edited by Todd W. Sigety

I have to say that I usually approach books like this with a grain of salt. But BOY was I ever thrilled to read this book. This is information that you can use, written by and for professional appraisers. Not just someone up in an ivory tower but real life situations. You know that there is nothing like being able to talk with fellow appraisers about real life situations and dealings. That is what this book is all about. Dozens of well written, original articles by ISA, ASA and AAA real life appraisers about various subjects relating to the field of personal property appraisals. I mean this is one copy that I hate to say, that I've almost ruined from the folded corners /pages and miles of highlighted text and with various colors of post it notes and flags poking out of the edges. Already I've read it several times.

This is soft back edition with 321 pages was published by The Foundation for Appraisal Education. This book is worth its weight in gold. Absolutely a must for serious appraisers. This is the 2008 edition and the 2009 edition has been out on the market for some months and I think that the 2010 edition is being currently complied. They are priced at $55.00 and are a bargain price at that and the previous year's edition will be reduced to $35.00, you can click on this link to order http://www.appraisaljournal.org/ . Also be sure to check out Todd's blog "Appraiser Workshops" in my side bar. This is one of my favorite blogs and I look forward to checking on it every morning.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Tales From Scotland

2009-06-11T07:27:00.000-07:00

Scottish Clans and Tartans

by Ian Grimble

A bit of a stretch but you know how I am about learning all you can. This is a great book just to have on your shelf. I've always wished that I could claim more of my Scottish heritage. My Grandmother was of Scottish descent and I just don't think that allows me to be able to wear the tartans as if I were of direct descent. But I digress. Fabric was woven in particular patterns in long strips to wind about the neck to ward off the cold, which in time became our modern tie. Remember that these tartans were also used to identify the dead after a battle to determine who went where for a proper burial.

This is one of those thick heavy books in soft wraps. Nice quality paper with over 270 pages and 150 illustrations in full color of the tartans. Contains some excellent family histories of course. Ian Grimble is a well known author of numerous other books on Scottish history and clans. so check those out if you have a penchant for all things Scottish.

I found this on line at book finder.com for under $14.00.

This will be valuable if you're having to do research for a Scottish estate or collection of tartan ware pieces.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The Future is... Plastics

2009-06-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

Twentieth Century Fashionable Plastic Jewelry

by Lillian Baker

I don't do a lot with plastic jewelry, but I found that this was a fascinating read. Plastic in the form of jewelry has been around for generations, and Lillian Baker a well known collector and author of numerous books in the fields of antique and collectible jewelry has written an excellent book.

This book puts a strong focus on the 1920's up to the later 1950's. Showcasing numerous examples of some of the most interesting, boldly colored jewelry that you can imagine.

This 204 page hard back edition was published by Collector Books of Kentucky in 1992. Mostly full color high quality photos with several examples of b/w studio shots and catalog illustrations. Contains an excellent listing of various designers biographies and a concise history of plastics. There is a price guide included that even I as a novice saw were hopelessly outdated.

A good book to round out your jewelry library. I found this online at bookfinder.com for under $10.00.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Just A Spoon Full Will Do It

2009-06-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

American Spoons: Souvenir and Historical by Dorothy T. Rainwater & Donna H Felger

I've always been interested in souvenir spoons. Though I don't collect them, they are fascinating to study and look at. In the early 1900's souvenir spoons were likely the most popular gift for a traveler to bring back home. I'm sure that often there was a treasured sterling spoon in the curio cabinet or spoon rack of nearly every household in America at the time. Much like the post card they helped people to be drawn back to a happy visit or vacation or to connect someone to a distant retreat from loved one who had been there.

Each one was a miniature work of art with outstanding design and craftsmanship. Souvenir spoons showcased famous sites, relics or traditions from the locations that they were from. This is an interesting aspect from the part of a historian or researcher. Often these famous landmarks are now gone and provide a valuable tool for study. Sometimes these spoons incorporated enamels, moving parts, fancy engraving on the bowls and gilding.

The one thing that I enjoy about this book is that there is a lot of information on unusual spoons that are not of the souvenir variety. Patents applied for medicine spoons, folding spoons and those strange soup strainer spoons.

This 3rd edition is published by Thomas Nelson Inc. and Everybodys Press in 1968. Hard backed with 416 pages and is filled with b/w line illustrations and reprints from vintage catalogs. The back contains a handy list of well known and lesser known souvenir spoon makers including Towle, Gorham and Tiffany. This book is broken down into various categories like Winning the West, Meet Me At The Fair, Sport Round Up and Farms Factories and Plantations.

I found this title in soft covers and later editions on bookfinder.com for under $20.00. A plus for your appraisal book shelf, and I think a must for anyone dealing or appraising American late 19th century silver. You still find these spoons in households and some can be valued at hundreds of dollars. A good, interesting read.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Going Going Going Gone !!

2009-06-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

Under The Hammer: The Adventures of An Auctioneer

by Richard Harton

I'll make this one a short one for today and a slight diversion for your reading list. Remember as an appraiser you'll read topics that you think just don't fit into your academic reading list, but actually they do! This is Under the Hammer a work of NON-fiction but how best can I describe it?? Think... All Creatures Great and Small for the auction world. There is much to learn in this book from behind the scenes at auction houses. A wonderful, easy, smooth, read, highly enjoyable to those in the auction or appraisal trade. Often they mistakenly let appraisers and auctioneers two separate careers travel hand in hand, but that is just my call. Travel with Richard, as he begins his early auction career in the picturesque English country side until he reaches the polished, affluent auction houses in the larger cities. Funny stories of the exploits of consignors and auctioneers. A light read for your bookshelves.

This hard back edition was published by St. Martins Press USA in 1991 with 269 pages. I found this easily on line for under $4.00. Nice flight book or for the beach. Check out the other titles that showcase further adventures with Richard in the English auction field.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

The Green Green Glass of Greentown

2009-06-06T11:29:00.000-07:00

Greentown Glass: The Indiana Tumber and Goblet Company

by James Measell

Anyone who has ever en counted a piece of holly amber will appreciate and enjoy this book. What you say that you don't know what holly amber is?? Well, holly amber, also know as golden agate in the holly pattern, is likely one of the rarest and most coveted late 19th century manufacturer art glass patterns in America. Made by Greentown Glass, who at its height was a powerhouse and was quite productive and innovate. Holly amber has a lengthy and interesting story that I won't go into here but it is a wonderful design teamed up with an impeccable colored glass. But I digress holly amber is a well know pattern from Greentown but there are dozens other noteworthy patterns and colors. Patterns like cactus, cupid and teardrop and tassel and colors like chocolate glass, emerald green and of course the agates.

Written by James Measell, who is a noted Greentown / Indiana T & G Co. collector and scholar. This soft back is I think the first edition, put out in the 1970s by the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Smooth and easy to read with some great facts and history scattered around. Fully indexed, 142 pages long, an outstanding bibliography is in the back. The photos are sadly small and b/w with a few examples showcased in full color as was common for the time and there are numerous patterns featured. This does have a very dated price list that in my opinion should be pretty much ignored. Prices have since risen to lofty levels and some may have, in fact plummeted. But you should know how I feel about price guides. This is an excellent example of a book for appraisers who are dealing with 19th - early 20th century should have on shelf.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Connoisseur's Score Card For Furniture

2009-06-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

Fine Points of Furniture: Early American by Albert Sack

OK, you don't get anymore classic than this title. Who in their minds haven't use the good, better and best scenarios when doing a walk through or an appraisal? Don't expect this is have lengthy chapters on genealogies, history of sea ports or craft centers or the in depth talk of woods and hardware. Its not meant for that. Its meant to show you good better and best examples of chests, chairs, tables, case goods and the like. Don't expect this to have more modern furniture, it says early American and it means it. This is geared towards the connoisseur but could be used for the beginner as well.

I've used this copy for years and years. I love it because its simple and easy to use. In the back there is an indispensable guide called Restoration, Replacements & Imperfections, meant to alert you to what kind and where are the most likely locations for modern work to have been done. Good quality b/w photos, though they are a little bit on the small size. Nice paper. Of course its famous for how it breaks down the characteristic of values into 3 simple basic classifications. Forward is by Mr. Sack's father, Israel Sack, a legendary dealer in early American furniture, and is well worth a read.

My copy is published by Crown Publishers in 1959 contains over 300 pages and over 800 illustrations. There is a more modern edition in the market place that runs I see for under $30.00 up to $50.00 + on amazon.com. The copy like mine runs in the under $10.00 category on places like bookfinder.com. But I think that the photos are the same. I'll double check on this in the near future.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Please Mr. Postman Bring Me A... Catalog!

2009-06-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

The Import-ance of Small Papers

I have to admit that even today I love a catalog. I know, I know they destroy trees, pollute the environment and clog up our mail boxes. Years and years ago as a kid ago I would request a catalog from any company that had a toll free number. Also at this time there was a wealthy, local lady who obviously had serious shopping problems, as she would donate 100's of luxury store catalogs over the course of a year to our local library. I got those too. Luxury cars, clothing, jewelry, housewares, office supplies, toys and gift ware, you name it I looked at all of them. Anyway the vast majority of these catalogs were tossed out in the trash decades ago. But not all! Am I ever glad, that now, as an appraiser that I kept some of this massive treasure trove.

Catalogs can be valuable information to the professional appraiser. Bet you didn't think of that did you?

Case in point our catalog lady donated off an on dozens of Tiffany & Co. catalogs from the early to mid 1980's. I kept them for years. One day I decided to cull my collection by listing on eBay some of the ones that focused on mainly jewelry. I listed one lot of of about 9 catalogs with a couple of extra Christmas catalogs thrown in for good measure. Final bid was to a jewelry designer in New York City for the grand total of some $80.00 odd bucks. Remember these were free.

The more that I began appraising the more I began to see how these give-away catalogs created a window of time that made me examine the market at that time and period.

Another case in point is the incredible work done by the now defunct American company Cybis Porcelain. I have dozens of small glossy fliers and a couple of catalogs from this company that I've used several times to appraise these detailed creations. As of yet there are no reference books available on Cybis.

Still don't agree?? Look at some of the OLD, say 1900's Sears & Roebuck, Marshall Fields and Montgomery Ward mail order catalogs and see if you don't see items featured that you examine in homes on a regular basis. Obviously you should disregard the prices, but if you have a catalog from 1990 and a company lists a product for $3,000.00 you might want to investigate as to what its doing now when you spot a similar piece while on assignment. One type of catalog that I covet today are the older catalogs featuring furniture. I have several from upscale companies like Baker, Hendredon and others and especially useful are the great volumes that covered literally everything from Colonial Williamsburg dating from the 1950's - the 1960's. Remember this stuff was expensive then and very often holds some good value even today. So keep your eyes open for catalogs and in store brochures. They can be helpful to your appraisal career in the future.

Remember Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Underground Railroad... Not Underground, Not on Rails.. Discuss

2009-06-01T08:07:00.000-07:00

Hidden in Plain View: A Secret Story of Quilts and the Underground Railroad
by Jacqueline L. Tobin and Raymond G. Dobard PHD

For people who don't read a lot of American history, they are often puzzled over the concept of the underground railroad. Many actually think that its literally a train used to transport fugitive slaves to Canada. Nothing could have been further from the truth. In fact it was a series of safe houses and many many miles of walking across land and crossing rivers. In theory these quilts were used to alert slaves of how, when and where to leave a plantation and what to do and take on the journey.

This is truly a scholarly work and not intended to be a guide to the art of quilting. Instead it's focus is on complex African storytelling and the use of the "hidden" languages that many Africans brought with them. The people of Africa had a manner of preserving their life stories and legends through the use of pieced, woven, dyed and appliqued cloths. Naturally they brought this technique with them to America. They incorporated these designs into the quilts that covered the plantation beds of black and white families alike. Everything in these underground quilts and like in their native cloths had a meaning. The length of stitches, colors, placement, batting and the secret herbs tucked inside had meaning. However its the patterns that amazed me. Many of today's common patterns had direct links to patterns designed in Africa.

Very well written with the touching story of Mrs. Ozella McDaniel Williams of Charleston South Carolina, woven throughout its pages. This edition was published by Anchor Books in 2000. Soft back with 220 pages containing several pages of good quality color photos, an excellent timeline, quilt code pattern listing of meanings and a stellar bibliography. An excellent addition to your library on textiles, quilts or African American crafts.

I found several hard back edition online at bookfinder for under $10.00. Of course soft covers should follow much less.

Knowledge Is Power, so Arm Yourself

The How, What, When and Where guide to Books

2009-05-31T12:12:00.000-07:00

I'm going to take a small break from review and talk about something that many have asked me before.

Jerry, which is correct to have in your library hard back or soft back books? Well... which one is right?

Well it really makes no difference. Remember as appraiser's we should not be be overly concerned with what backing it has but rather what the CONTENT is! Now some will argue that they have a superior library because its filled with fine, hard back, first, editions. Again I don't care. I only care what is inside between the covers. Its the content that matters most. Now bear in mind that typically most books when they are published will sometimes (or not) come out first in a hard back edition with following editions being in soft back. This is for one simple reason.... cost. Its cheaper to have a soft cover than it is a hard cover. Often when books are reprinted the publisher / author will take this opportunity to revise the printing. Sometimes this done in regards to a price guide listing update (remember what I've said about those before) or newly found information. Make sure that you have the correct edition for your needs. You don't want to have old information when there is a newly revised edition with needed information just out on the market. Examine these newly re-printed books and evaluate if you need this new edition or not.

Warning!!! Often publishers will only change a covers dust jacket or a book's pictorial covers to freshen it up. Sometimes they will even state REVISED on the front or inside. Folks the only thing that has changed is the cover, the information is often the same. Be careful not to fall for this costly trap, because I have.

Where do you buy your books?

I get that question a lot. I say "where ever you can." On a regular basis I hit garage sales, auctions, flea markets, used book stores and of course the internet. I don't care where they come from, just that I get them. I gather no cache from being able to say that that I spent x number of dollars by shopping at an expensive store. Now some will argue that they have superior libraries because they are full of fine first editions and they only buy retail. OK, there are some people out there who only want to buy their books brand new from big box retailers. If you have the money for that, well good for you! I how ever would rather buy the same book at a cheaper price and be able to buy more books somewhere else later. Shop around you'll find it else where guaranteed. Remember that many titles have been out of print for decades. So you'll have to buy second hand. The internet is a great source for getting the most value for your book budget. View my favorite websites on the side bar to see what I personally use almost everyday and there are dozens more out there still.

So do I have first editons or rare titles that I paid a lot of money for? Of course. Sometimes there is just no alternative than to pay a high price when its something you need. I have several examples of books that I keep a pretty / signed copy on the shelf with a mylar wrapper on the dust jacket and sitting right beside will be the copy that I use on a regular basis. dog eared, highlighted, annotated and finger stained. If you're the type of appraiser that makes notes in his or her reference books, don't feel like you have to stop this habit. Just buy a crummy copy and highlight and make notations in that one. Don't ruin a book, that in the future could be resold at a profit by covering it in pen or magic marker marks, that stupid. Even if you can't find another copy that why we have copiers.

I just mentioned profit a moment ago. That is something that can be very serious if you use your head and have a dose of luck. For example lets say that you deal in Kentucky decorative arts, like I do. A new book has come out on the inlaid furniture of Lincoln County Kentucky. Typically these regional books are small runs, very small runs. They could have a MSRP of say... $60.00 BUT lets jump a head to 10 years into the future. That same book could sell for $400.00. Now that's just an hypothetical example but take the book titled The Art and Mystery of Tennessee Furniture they too had a basic price when available and new but today that book moves on the secondary market for nearly $900.00. So keep that in mind when buying your more regional books.

Sorry I feel that I've rambled on too long again, but this is valuable needed information.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Some One Loved Me Enough... To Take My Picture

2009-05-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Daguerreotype in America

By Beaumont Newhall

I love photography in all forms. In fact I thought that you might enjoy seeing some of my own photos too. I'll install one or two in the side bar and change them out from time to time. But there is nothing like the haunting beauty of daguerrotypes. There is just something that makes magic when subject, lighting, artist and that labor intensive process clicks just right. You'll enjoy this book. Loaded with frameable images of notable Americans and locations from the "dag" masters of the day.

This 3rd revised edition in soft covers is published by Dover Publications in 1976 and I think has been reprinted several over times since then. Mr. Newhall is a highly important author on early and modern photography and has literally dozens of scholarly titles on the market. These 104 photos are reproduced in a larger format so the images are even more striking. Nearly as important as the photos is the incredible listing of photographer's and their biographies. Nicely indexed with a select bibliography in the back.

I found this book on line at bookfinder.com for under $15.00 up to $50.00 or more. Money well spent if you like early photos.

I know that there is only a small likely hood that one of us appraisers will find an early masterpiece like the ones pictured here, but who knows what hiding in that shoebox.

Knowledge is Power, So Arm Yourself

A Dream Of The Orient

2009-05-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Oriental Cloisonne & Other Enamels: A Guide To Collecting and Repairing by Arthur and Grace Chu

I've always enjoyed handling and appraising minor pieces of Oriental decorative arts. I'll state now that I do not appraise the serious porcelains or bronzes. But I will tackle cloisonne and other enamels fairly confidently.

This book is different from any that I've seen before. It not only covers cloisonne but also the lesser known techniques like plique a jour, foil, champleve and others. The Chu's also delve into the fascinating history and symbols of this craft but most importantly they show how these items are made. Even simple pieces are labor intensive. There is also a chapter in the back that shows how to repair these items that are damaged. I personally would not attempt this as it really won't help the value anyway.

This hard back edition was published by Crown Publishers in 1975 contains 180 pages. Numerous b/w images with a couple of pages of color that show case various forms of this art. Photos are good quality for the time. My edition has a beautiful DJ. A great addition to your library. Loaded with lots of useful information and you just won't find elsewhere.

I found this listed on bookfinder for under $13.00 BUT on amazon.com this title was listed for $84.00 and up. Check on eBay too.

Knowledge Is Power, So Arm Yourself

Heigh Ho For Halloween

2009-05-26T08:24:00.001-07:00

Halloween in America: A Collectors Guide w/ Prices

by Stuart Schneider

You know I've loved Halloween ever since I was a kid. It's the early stuff that I like as opposed to the gore and horror of today. And this book is chocked full of the early items too. The thing that I find fascinating is that these items were NOT meant to be saved and most were paper so I'm surprised that any survived at all.

This is by one of my favorite publishers Schiffer. If you've read the previous blogs on this site you'll know that this is a "vanity price guide" and I, as an appraiser disregard the dated price list in the back, but this book will not disappoint. Loaded with numerous photos of examples that are featured in excellent full color, lots of information on manufacturers, symbols and the history of this mysterious holiday. A nice but short bibliography is in featured in the back. This soft back was published in 1995 with over 200 pages, good quality glossy paper. A nice addition to your library.

I found several copies available at bookfinder & ABEbooks for under $20.00 and one copy at Amazon for about $27.00

Knowledge is Power So Arm Your Self

Pots But No Pans... American Art Pottery

2009-05-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

Art Pottery of The USA by Paul Evans

OK, I'll be the first to admit that this isn't the best of reference books on American art pottery. There are very scholarly works on many of the individual potteries listed inside these pages. But for a number of years this title has gotten me over several humps. I think that American art pottery is one of the many many decorative arts that we Americans excelled in. Nothing like the glazes of Rookwood and Weller, the shapes of Teco and Grueby and the absolute "up in your face" designs of Ohr. Good job USA, keep producing a new crop of new potters.

This is a paper back book published by Feingold & Lewis NY in 1987. Number over 440 pages. The illustrations are small, grainy and ALL b/w with a few color shots thrown in so that's not too good. But it contains a great lot of alphabetized information on some of the lesser known potteries. Of course the major potters are well represented. Still I've used it off and on for years. Its a good beginners guide. Get this find what you like or you need to know and then buy the more serious color illustrated books. I've seen this online several times for under $5.00.

By Hook Or Crook... Let's Not Go That Far

2009-05-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

Rare Hooked Rugs

by William Winthrop Kent

Hooked rugs have been around for centuries. Originally they were made for use of tablecloths or bed covers. That would keep you warm wouldn't it? Bright, colorful and now making a huge comeback. But there is nothing like the older period rugs.

If you deal in or appraise on a regular basis early hooked rugs. Then this book is for you. Its not the best in regards to history or technique but its a winner with a general overview of the subject. Lots of nice quality b/w images with one super photo of a group of ladies actually making their rugs. This is broken down into several several easy to find categories like geometric, floral and still life. Nice index too. easy to use and of course with the date you'll see lots of examples that you rarely out of museums or high end collections.

This edition is published by Pond Ekbery & Company in 1948. Hard back with a beautiful pictorial cover. Contains over 220 pages. A nice addition to your collection of reference books. I just wish that it was in color. I found it online for under $25.00 to as high as $120.00.

How About Breakfast With Tiffany... Silver That Is.

2009-05-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Tiffany Silver Flatware 1845 - 1905: When Dining Was Art

by William P Hood Jr.

Nothing has the cache as the name Tiffany & Co. stamped on the back of your flatware. Travel back in time to a world when how you presented yourself at the table could make or break you in society.

This book by William Hood is far beyond a passion, it is truly a labor of love. William Hood, a cardiologist in Alabama, has been a long time collector of Tiffany sterling. In this work, it certainly shows. Full color, high quality, photographs showing the patterns, old catalogs illustrations and displays and excellent quality paper, typical of Antique Collectors publications. A thick heavy book, 350 pages in length. Broken down into easy to find and read categories of the various types of table and serving pieces, for example, all the spoons will be listed together with subcategories for such items as egg spoons, soup spoons and sherbet spoons and on and on for the other types of pieces like forks and knives. Showcases and discusses in length the famous Chrysanthemum, Audubon, Lap Over Edge and noteworthy commissions from the Vanderbilts and the McKays. Contains an outstanding chronology, detailed notes, a pattern index and a general index and an exhausting bibliography and a really interesting quiz with answers.

If you need one book in Tiffany sterling I would choose this one. I promise that you will reference it over and over. A great reference book that at times reads almost like a novel. The only drawback I can see is that it does run a little bit on the expensive side. I spotted on on half.com for under $40.00 but that is rare to see that. Typically they cost between $50.00 - $65.00 with some sites listing it for upwards of $100.00 or more.

Let Granite Be Your Rock

2009-05-18T09:28:00.000-07:00

Collectors Encyclopedia of Granite Ware: Color, Shapes and Values by Helen Greguire

This, I have to say is an impressive work and I've enjoyed using it many times. Even if country and primitive items aren't your cup of tea, everyone in this business should have an appreciation for this very bold and graphic ware.

Granite ware has been around since the later half of the 19th century and was touted as being indestructible, hard wearing and hygienic. This encyclopedia goes far far beyond the typical blue and white swirled colors. It branches off in the span of the rarer colors of greens, yellows, brown and the collectible and expensive red. Of course it also showcases the plainer white with a colored band. Focus is spread on the wares of North America and Europe. Dozens of rare museum quality examples are shown. Things like dustpans, lavabos, stoves, food molds, graters, wash bowls and pitchers and on and on. Several pages of interesting children's sets and pieces. A thick heavy hard backed book with over 400 pages. Sadly it lacks a developed bibliography or notes on the collections. Everything photographed inside is with high quality full color. It does have a values guide featured in the back. But I would in this day and age disregard this value listing as the market has changed so much in the ensuring years. This 1990 edition was published by Collector Books here in Kentucky and I consider it in the top 10% of their holdings based on the quality of this work.

Easily found online. I found one on bookfinder.com for under $9.00. I recommend this to everyone not just to those who deal in country stuff. Honestly, its an interesting read that incorporates the lore and legend of the American kitchen from generations past. Remember... knowledge is power, arm your self.

The Dirty Truth About Price Guides

2009-05-16T12:05:00.000-07:00

General Price Guides

OK, I thought that it was time to hit on a real touchy subject here. In regards to the serious appraiser and the use of general price guides there is one simple thing to remember.....

Don't waste your money!

Enough said on that phrase, that should cover it all. Let me clarify a little. I break price guides down into two separate but very distinct categories. Bear in mind that this is my own blend of terminology.

1. General Price Guides (such as Schroeder's, Warman's, Antique Week, Antique Trader, Lyle and of course the Kovels).

2. Vanity Price Guides (these are typically written by one or two authors who have an undying passion for a subject and usually only one subject or period these are sometimes seen with the wording with Value Guide).

Lets tackle Vanity Price Guides (VPG) first. Take for instance the reference books on cut glass by noted author Bill Boggess. Certainly a scholar, active in the market, well researched with excellent photos but with a listing of prices in the back for the featured pieces. As an appraiser you know that you should not rely on any prices in any books. We'll explore the reasoning behind this mantra later. But VPG's are very very useful and valuable to the appraiser. Often they are loaded with tons of good if not great information and photos on subjects not always commonly found. These authors are consumed with their subjects and prices, values and worth are just a natural part of that passion. They want to share what they know or perceive. Just don't rely on the handy value listings in the back.

OK Here we go. General Price Guides (GPG) next up. I just don't like them. The descriptions are scant, with few good photos, no market location or conditions behind the valuing, no bibliography or reference points and the list could go on and on. Some dealers, collectors and yes even some good appraisers will fight to the death defending them.

Here are some secrets about GPGs. That brand new GPG that you hold in your hand now in 2009, is in all likely hood anywhere from 2 - 3 years old!! The information was gathered from years ago in an effort to put together a book in accordance with the publishing world rules. So what does that tell us?? The prices are NOT fresh and current. Not fresh and current from the BEGINNING. Second just where did these prices come from? They are gathered from various sources. They could be from an auction in Texas, a yard sale in Maine, an antique show in California, a flea mall in Illinois, or a fine antiques gallery in Kentucky. So what does that tell us?? We don't know the market context and conditions and where that context and those conditions are from. Is it a retail price in Oregon or a Fair Market Value in Mississippi. This makes a big difference with your establishing value for your client's collection.

So in a nut shell GPGs are

1. typically not good quality
2. values are not fresh
3. You don't know where the values came from

But there is one exception. The works of Judith Miller. Miller's GPGs are based out of England and are lush with full color photos, high quality papers, detailed descriptions, helpful hints, information on where the values came from and what context and more good things. But even with Judith's books they are out of the market. Often they are English based designs or objects that I don't see a lot of and they are in an entirely different market with the same old time and date restrictions imposed just like here in the states. However all of these GPGs are slowly changing with the Kovels taking a huge lead with some actually exciting new changes to the printed forms that they are famous for and expanding thier online presence.

Do I personally own GPGs? Of course! I just pick them up at library sales for .50 cents - $1.00 and basically display them on my shelves. All in all as a serious appraiser I would use the VPGs (and sometimes GPGs) ONLY for the information and simply disregard the the listed values.

That is why attending or subscribing to regional and international auction houses catalogs or online sales is so important. Remember fresh and current in a relevant market. There is no substitute.

Happy Times On Blue Bayou... Bend

2009-05-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

Bayou Bend, American Furniture, Paintings & Silver From the Bayou Bend Collection by David B Warren

Bayou Bend has to be one of the smallest but most important private collections of American furniture and decorative arts in the United States. The house, designed by prominent architect John F. Staub, was built between 1927 and 1928. Miss Hogg and her brothers wanted the design of their new home to reflect the history, culture, and climate of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Staub's plan for Bayou Bend combined the refined symmetry of eighteenth-century English Georgian architecture.

In 1920 Miss Hogg had begun assembling an important collection of American decorative arts. To provide suitable settings for these extraordinary antiques, Staub designed simple but stately interiors in the style of colonial American rooms. Miss Hogg developed intense relationships with some of the earliest, most legendary antique dealers in the America. Notably Israel Sack.

This paper back edition was published by The Houston Museum of Fine Arts in 1975 and has over 190 pages. Excellent b/w photos with a scattering of color photos. The only thing that I don't like is that most of the photos are a little on the small side. But its loaded with valuable information about the incredible furniture and decorative arts collections. An added plus for me was that they hold several examples of Kentucky pieces.

This isn't a major tour de force but an easy book to start to become established with American furniture. Very recommended.

A Piece Saved Is A Piece Earned

2009-05-12T11:25:00.000-07:00

Saving Stuff: How to Care for and Preserve Your Collectibles, Heirlooms, and Other Prized Possessions By Don Williams and Louise Joggar

This is a great book for any appraiser's library. You know we always have clients that are asking about how to care for items or what type of restoration needs to be done to a piece. Of course we are not restoration experts but it helps if we can be knowledgeable about the care of antiques, decorative arts and the fine arts. This is a great book for several notches above the beginner level. BUT all of it is easy to read and understand. I guarantee that you'll learn something. Some excellent illustrations with easy to comprehend explanations. Cover numerous topics like textiles, silver and other metals, clothing, paper items, wooden items, coins, marble and stones and just on and on.

This is a Smithsonian publication (so they should know something about conservation and restoration) still fresh being printed for the first time in 2005. This paper back edition is over 330 pages of great information.

I found this easily online for as low as $4.00. A worthy addition to your appraisal library.

Ahhh... The Smell Of It All.

2009-05-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

Fragrance Bottle Masterpieces

by Joanne Dubbs Ball & Dorothy Hehl Torem

You know, we think that today that we have developed designs and advanced packaging to a high degree. Think again! We have nothing compared to what was done decades ago and with all things the lowly but useful perfume bottle.

I have to say that I was lost on this subject until I was made aware of this incredible book. It showcases dozens of bottles that are truly masterpieces. Broken down into easy to find categories with an easy to read history /culture of this vessel. Covers top designers and perfumers from both America and Europe, that many have long since passed into oblivion. Did you know that Rene Lalique designed for Coty the first commercial bottle? You'll learn this an much more in this volume. Even if you don't deal or appraise much glass let a lone perfume bottles. Remember knowledge is power. The one thing that I would have liked to have read were the stories behind the collector's finds or lack there of. A very limited bibliography was listed too.

This is from the always high quality Schiffer Publishers 1996 edition with over 250 pages. But its the photos that just knock your socks off. Lavish and full color and suitable for framing. A heavy glossy tome. This is available online and between Amazon and Bookfinder it ranged from $35.00 to as high as $192.00 so it can run a little expensive. So consider how much you'll use it.

And yes, I was lucky enough to get mine in a library book sale. Yahoo.

Hands To Work & Hearts To God

2009-05-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

Shaker Woodenware: A Field Guide Vol I by June Sprigg and Jim Johnson

I'm located about seven miles away from Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill the largest restored Shaker Village in the United States, so I'm very familiar with Shaker artifacts and history. I've used this book on countless occasions and I always enjoy reading it and learning from it. I'll review some of June's other books in the future.

June Sprigg has been a perennial author on Shaker history, artifacts and customs since the early 1970's, with numerous books under her belt. June is a graduate of Lafayette College and the Winterthur Program in Early American Culture and is currently curator of The Hancock Shaker Village.

This book is actually number one in a two volume series on Shaker woodenware. There is only the paper back edition and it numbers 160 pages long. Loaded with useful information on Shaker woodenware. There are dozens of professional b/w photos that are worthy of framing. But it's the information that is such a winner in my eyes. Easy to read but for the advanced appraiser, dealer or scholar. The information inside tells of the the different traits between the various villages, the use of color, dates, functions, manufacturing, makers and guides to what to look for. covers subjects such as the famous Shaker oval boxes, carriers, pails, dippers, sewing boxes and many more items. I highly recommend this particular book to anyone dealing with or appraising Shaker wares. You just can't go wrong with this volume or any books that Ms. Sprigg has written or co-authored.

This book and its sequel Volume II are out of print. These paper back field guides can be obtained online from various sellers. Amazon.com had a used copy listed for around $43.00 but bookfinder.com had several copies listed for under $10.00. There is also a Sprigg field guide to Shaker linens and textiles which is very hard to find. This particular copy I've seen sell on eBay for over $75.00. But look around and you'll be able to find a copy or two of this great small book. A great addition to your book shelves.

The Sad Fate of Biblio...maniacs

2009-05-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Biblio Magazine

I'll keep this one short. But for anyone who is a lover of the world of books you surely know the title of this magazine. It was a sad day when this magazine ceased to be. I've never seen anything quite like it before or since. Of course there have been for decades listings of books for sale in the back of traditional magazines and newspapers. But this is the first elite, glossy, incredibly well written and photographed magazine on solely on books, magazines and ephemera. This was and is an excellent source of information.Bibliophiles, bibliomaniacs and the casual collector will all benefit from the fount of practical and arcane knowledge so expertly dished out. Covers such diverse topics as Robert Burns, The Electronic World of Book Collecting, Hay-on Wye, Tasha Tudor, wine and cooking books, the Beatles, Ophrah Winfrey and Thomas Hardy.

The late, great, dearly lamented BIBLIO magazine we miss you still. I was lucky enough that I actually carried this magazine from day one in my store. How fortunate I was when I kept one or two editions from each month. Still even I am missing a few. If you love books, you will love this magazine. A complete production run will be 31 issues July 1996 through to April 1999. Ebay is a great source for issues. However bear in mind that the coveted volume 1 number 1 will cost dear. That's my copy you see in this blog edition. I've seen very good copies go for $75.00 - $100.00.

All That Glitters Might Be Gold

2009-05-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

Victorian Jewellery by Margaret Flower

This copy has always been a favorite of mine. It's perfect for someone doing historic re-enacting or researching jewelry. Easy to understand with an above level of knowledge.

This is laid out in the most unusual manner, the likes of which that I've never seen again. It starts out with actually a very good overview, then its broken down into the various chapters of Victoria's reign. For example 1832 - 1845 will tell what stones, finishes and pieces were popular during that time and so on the for the following years. This is a plus for those dealing of appraising in higher end values. This covers the more serious jewels and styles of the period. Not just for the inexpensive trinkets.

Very informative and handy. Fully indexed with a nice time line, bibliography and other charts and pages full of information. Very nice quality color images for the time with an abundance of b/w shots of equal quality and several pages of catalog illustrations.

My hard backed edition is from 1967 and contains 270 pages of reference material. This is a book that I would highly recommend to any appraiser or dealer that handles the better quality things.

Pull Up a Chair... A Windsor Chair

2009-05-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

The Windsor Style in America Vol I & II by Charles Santore

Now this is a book written by and for scholars. This book covers the reign of the Windsor chair in America. Originally meant as garden seating that moved onto the porch and then into the house. Noted for its comfort, style and its ability to with stand heavy wear. Windsor chairs have become American icons.

This book is a heavy, thick, hard backed tome with over 290 pages. This edition is from 1981 and at one time was in two seperate volumes now together in one easy to find book. Top qualtiy b/w photos so detailed and elegant that you won't even miss the color. This covers not only the standard chiars but unusual regional variants, childrens chairs and stools. Amazon had this available in used copies for up to $35.00 and new copies for upwards of $99.00. If you handle or appraise a lot of furniture this is one book that will fit right in with your library.

A Place For Everything & Everything In Its Place

2009-05-08T07:59:00.000-07:00

Neat and Tidy: Boxes and Their contents Used in Early American Households

If you're not familiar with the names of Nina Fletcher & Betram Little you should. This couple is old school of the top degree. Their story reads like a fairy tale. They began buying, dealing and collecting way back in the 1930's. All in an effort to furnish an early home. Back in the days when masterpieces could still be found at country auctions. They has a mantra that should be lived by today, "Use and live with the things that you buy." That is exactly what they did Kids, dogs and friends and family all used and lived with the things that they brought home. Most important of all they became scholars. Scholars that were sought out by top museums and collectors. The Sotheby's sale of their property in 1994 brought record prices and helped to further establish the field of early American decorative arts by regional artists. We'll cover these auction catalogs in a later blog.

Nina has written several books but this is the best known and loved. This paperback edition published by The Society for Preservation For New England Antiquities (SPNEA) covers household boxes and what they were used for. Over 200 pages in the newer edition with nice quality but b/w small photos with a scattering of color images. An enlightening list of boxes from Sewing boxes, tea caddies, pantry boxes, document boxes and the incredible pasteboard & wall paper band boxes. The listing covers metals, wood and paper boxes and containers. Now of course this focuses on New England antiques with only a small listing of Southern pieces, one of my favorite subjects. This is one book that you'll read from cover to cover. Easily available on line for under $15.00 for the modern editions.

Everyone Should Live and Take Photographs Like In This Book

2009-05-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

Antiques At Home by Barbara Milo Ohrbach

I thought that it was time for a little bit of beauty to be dropped into our studies. This is the perfect book for it too. Now you're not going to learn a lot about the trade or appraisals or even antiques but you can enjoy the incredible photos. It does have a few pages on how to care for antiques but its basic stuff. There is also a listing of dealers, shows and retail stores in the back that is likely out of date. Lush with full color photos from private homes, antiques shows and open markets to retail stores back in the glory days of the 1980's. Lets face it that's what this book is all about.. the photographs. Looks like that most of the locations are European in origins. Certainly this has a "gentlewoman's" air about it, but its great to look at. I especially enjoyed the display of tartan ware, wooden ware and the shots of silver. This is a hard backed first edition with over 240 pages. You should be able to find this from many internet sources. I've seen some copies listed at $5.00 for the later paper back editions.

The Book That Every Appraiser Must Own !

2009-05-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

The Dictionary of Antiques & Decorative Arts

by Louise Ade Boger and H Batterson Boger

This is a book that was just brought to my attention a few years ago. It is incredible! I reference this book in nearly every bibliography section of each appraisal report that I submit.

It is a dictionary of terms, periods, styles and construction techniques and much much more. Very easy to read and understand. It covers some of the most obscure terms. Terms that you just don't hear anymore. Unless you're an appraiser or advanced collector. Terms referencing pottery, silver, porcelain, furniture, architecture and more. I've taken to just reading a page or two from it every time I pass by it and have a little extra time.

This is a thick hard cover book with over 660 pages. There is a scattering of small b/w illustrations that highlight certain subjects / categories. This is the 1967 edition published by Charles Scribners & Sons but I'm sure that there are other editions floating around. This is an extra nice copy with a dust jacket in a protective mylar slip. I've seen examples depending on the edition and location range from $50.00 to as high as $200.00. Look around and you'll find one. But honestly if you only buy one book this year for your appraisal library let it be this one.

Not Everyone Looks Good With A Mustache

2009-04-28T11:34:00.000-07:00

Mustache Cups by Dorothy Hammond

Well, I don't guess that I should just list only the gems of the Antiques Reference Books World. And this is one example. Its a cute book and slightly entertaining. Lets face its a paper back vanity book put out by Wallace Homestead in the 1970's.

About 100 pages in length with poor quality color photos, little in the way of real history or social customs and a scant bibliography. Certainly of a more collectible nature. But you know the one thing that really irks me? You only see the front view of the cups and NO saucers in the photos. So they just look like a bunch of cups. You don't even see the lip guards that make these special. The cover is the best image. I don't really recommend this to anyone unless you find it very cheap and you really need it. Should be available for under $10.00.

Not A Tiffany Rival, But An Artist of His Own Right

2009-04-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

Frederick Carder:Portrait of a Glassmaker by Paul V. Gardner

Wow! I would have liked to have know Frederick Carder. Wouldn't that have been something? Frederick started out working closely with Stevens & Williams in England. This is where he experimented and created many of his famous lines Aurene. Often I'm puzzled when people make comparisons to Louis C. Tiffany styles. Though Carder did work for Tiffany for a short time doing only grunt work He was accused of stealing trade secrets. Carder was an artist with his own voice and vision. I think that they are as different as night and day. Though I can see great similarities to their colorings. Hmmm... an interesting fact that we'll never know the truth behind.

Tiffany initially unlike Carder sadly saw his moment of greatness flicker and go out. Carder excelled in the Art Deco / modern periods of the 1920's - 1940's. Nothing says Jazz Age like Carder's deco period at Steuben. Though in 1918 Carder now like Tiffany was asked to step down from the company he created and eventually was pushed out. Many people think only of crystal when you say Steuben. Nothing could be further from the truth when you examine Carder's colors and techniques from earlier days.

This is a paper back book but I think that it can be found in hard back. Numbers 120 pages and is published by the Corning Museum. Though it is a paper bound book it is very high quality with incredible photos that are literally frame worthy. Several chapters cover the text history with the majority of this book dedicated to examples of glass. This should be on the shelves of every serious appraiser or serious dealer / collector. Should be available for under $25.00. You'll pour over it cover to cover.

The Wonderful World of Staffordshire

2009-04-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

Staffordshire Romantic Transfer Patterns: Cup Plates & Early Victorian China by Petra Williams with Marguerite R. Weber

Is there anything as classic and as elegant as blue and white transfer? Or how about red and white? Or green and white? If you said yes to any of these then you need to be aware of this book.

Not as well known as some books on transfer. Petra was a Jeffersonville KY pottery collector and lecturer back in the early 1970's. She actually wrote about five books I think on Flow Blue and this one volume on Staffordshire.

I have always found them easy to use and 9 times out of 10 I find the pattern I was looking for. This book is broken down into distinct chapters such as Hand Painted, Art Nouveau, Scenic etc. Which is handy. I think that the only draw back that I find is that there are only small balck and white photos and these are taken from a distance and are hard to pin point details but you can see it enough to find you pattern. It is will researched with the history of the company and other vitals Of course technology has changed so much that today I'm sure that these would be in full color with blown up details instead of the black and white film that its photographed in. But still they are a great reference points and a good addition to your library.

Its a thick book with over 760 pages. Attractive hard covers but the paper is a little acidic but again thats just the time period its from. These can run towards the expensive side but check eBay as I've seen them stay under $50.00.

Tales of Wine, Women & Song

2009-04-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

Wine Antiques by Robin Butler & Gillian Walking

This is a must have for those who often come across, appraise or deal in antiques and collectibles in the field of wine and spirits. You'd never guess that wine would have played such a role in humanity until you see how they set the table. You know you never really think about how.= This impressive book (as though Antiques Collectors' Club could put anything out less) will be a great asset on your shelves. It has chapter that cover everything from the wine cisterns, cork screws, bottle tickets, decanters, furniture, silver, funnels, stems and a host of other items too long to mention. It covers a great deal of American and European wine and drinking history through the ages too.

Loaded with beautiful, high quality glossy b/w and some color photos and illustrations. Reads smooth and easy with very well written descriptions. A heavy high quality book with about 287 pages. Contains several appendicies, is fully indexed and has an interesting listing of all the known bottle tickets. Easily availble on line or from smaller book stores. Amust for the wine collector or appraiser.

An Appreciation of Export Porcelain

2009-04-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

Chinese Export Procelain: Standard Patterns and Forms, 1780 - 1880 by Herbert, Peter and Nancy Schiffer

I have to say that for my appraisal library that Schiffer publications are some of my favorites. This one actually by Herbert Peter and Nancy Schiffer is an excellent source of information.

Beautifully done with easy to read text and loaded with b/w photos and a smallish section of color images. Yes I will have to say that some of the photos are a little out of focus and are taken from a distance. But my God it shows items that today you won't even see in the finest of antiques shows.

The writings are smooth and though done with a scholars hand never come off as pretentious or diffucult to understand. I wouldn't recommend this to someone if they were looking for lengthy text about the social, geographic or dynasty history of 18th -19th century China. Its a good guide for those who need relevant information and need it now. There are other more intense publications geared towards the connoisseur. At times they tend to be a tad dry too. Actually this is a good book to get your feet wet in the field of export porcelains. Highly recommended for the beginner as well as the more advanced collector, appraiser or dealer.

Tin Is The New Gold Today

2009-04-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

Antique Tin & Tole Ware: Its History and Romance by Mary Earle Gould

I seem to have a real passion for listing metal wares in this blog. Promise that I'll list up something different next time. But this is one that is just a great read and a super addition to your appraisal library. This is probably the best known work by noted scholar Mary Earle Gould. Google her name sometime she had a fascinating life and wrote several useful books on Early American decorative arts. These books are still today quoted by dealers in high end fields. This edition I think dates to the early 1930's. So what does that tell you?? This reference book is going to show case a lot of rare items that you just don't see out side museums today. Tin scoops, tin kitchens, tole painted trays, mouse traps, lighting, tea kettles, dust pans and Shaker and Amish pieces the list is just almost endless. Remember this... at one time tin was considered like our tupperware is today. Something for everyone. Every town had at least one or two tinsmiths.

Nice simple b/w photos or line drawings are scattered through out. Pages number about 200 or there abouts. The text reads smoothly and easily and is written by a scholar / collector for collectors.

This edition with a dust jacket will run over $100.00 in the fancy reference books stores. If you look around you should be able to find a nice tight copy under $50.00. Its a great read for todays early American collectors and appraisers.

The Be All To End All Kentucky Silver Reference Book

2009-04-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Silversmiths, Jewelers and Clock Makers of Kentucky 1785 - 1900 by Marquis Boultinghouse. I was given my copy of this incredible work by a cousin of mine in the early days of opening my store. I have to say that it is one of the most dog eared, thumbed, annonated, scuffed and soiled books on my shelves. Yes I do have another nice clean copy on my shelf. This is one book that anyone with any desire to learn more about Kentucky deocorative arts must own. First published in 1980. It is filled with obscure and well known silversmiths, examples of marks, several pages of an impressive bibliography and several nice b/w photos. But its the story of each smith that really brings it all to life. This book literally reads as though it was put together by a genealogist. It tells when and where a smith worked, for how long and many interesting bits about his family and the social conditons of the day. I hear rumors that an updated version by this author could be out in the next few years. Either way I highly highly recommend this book for all appraisers.

Early American Wrought Iron, Albert H. Sonn

2009-04-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

This is another great title to add to your library. Early American Wrought Iron by Albert H. Sonn. This is mostly geared to architecture and its fittings. Remember that as an appraiser you'll have many subjects in your reference library.

This is the 1989 Bonanza edition three volumes in one. Originally it was published in three seperate volumes in the late 1920's. An impressive thick heavy tome with over 260 pages fully indexed. It coveres many facets of wrought iron including but not limited to hinges, door pulls, gates, boot scrapers and many other examples. There are several pages of the fine wrought iron examples from New Orleans and Charleston. The illustrations are rendered in the form of elegant black and white pencil drawings in the style of Eric Sloane. Ideal for the historian or the scholar of man's attempt at managing metal in its early American forms.

This volume is easily available from Amazon.com and other antiquarian booksellers. But be warned that this three volume set will easlily cost upwards of $100.00.

The Stone of Heaven Unearthing The Secret History of Imperial Green Jade by Adrian Levy and Cathy Scott - Clark.

2009-01-24T13:07:00.000-08:00

The Stone of Heaven Unearthing The Secret History of Imperial Green Jade by Adrian Levy and Cathy Scott - Clark.

I was intrigued to see an entire book about this much loved but misunderstood stone. I’ve always had a fascination with the orient and all things oriental. I thought that at first that surely it was a work of fiction set up to read as a syrupy romantic melodrama. Far from the truth. This is a non fiction work that spans centuries. It starts out with an Emperors obsession and flows into the era of the Dragon Lady The Dowager Empress Cixi and ends its imperial story with the sad fate of Pu Yi The Last Emperor of China. The sacking of Imperial Palaces in the 1860's is enough to give an appraiser or dealer a case of nightmares. It explains in detail the stories and legends of the English, French and American men and women who like their Chinese counterparts grew to adore this stone to the point of madness and obsession. Levy and Scott - Clark ends this book’s last chapters with the tragic realization of the death, drugs and human suffering that this precious stone much like the diamond has brought on greedy men.

This is a great study for someone who appraises or deals in fine jade or oriental objects, or if you’re like me you just like the myth and lore of this famous stone. The back contains an extensive bibliography. My only regret towards this book is the fact it shows no photographs of this stone in question. The people that play a role in this stone’s history are well represented but not the actual stone. This book I’m certain is now considered out of print. You should be able to locate a copy of this book at any national chain through its custom order department, bookfinder.com, half.com, half priced books and independent used / antiquarian book sellers. A plus on any collector’s or appraiser’s book shelf.

Kentucky The Master Painters Makes an Impressive Debut

2009-01-19T08:49:00.000-08:00

The work Antebellum Portraiture of Kentucky by Edna Talbott Whitley had for generations been one of the volumes to reach for when researching Kentucky art. No more! This is the newest long awaited book by author Estill Curtis (Buck) Pennington.

Kentucky The Master Painters of will become a must for any collector or dealer of Kentucky antiques or fine arts. An impressive large heavy book. The artists inside range from the very well known to those long needing recognition The time lines cover Kentucky art from the periods of 1800 - 1830: Early artists of legend and note featuring Jouett, Park and Jarvis and others 1840 - 1875: The romance of "Old Kentucky" featuring Bingham, Bush and Davenport and others, 1875 - 1900: International introductions showing Brenner, Joiner, Revenaugh and others, 1900 - 1920: Kentucky impressions showcasing Alke, Hill, and Sawyier with others and lastly 1914 - 1930: Lingering strains, conflicting points of view listing such artists as Alberts, Plaschke and Weygold amongst others. This last time span covers modern Kentucky artists that until now had little acknowledgment.

Beautifully written in an almost lyrical style. High quality paper showcases clear, tight color images. Images of works that until now have not been seen by the general public. The in-depth history of the artists and the featured subjects help to round out this volume. The back contains an extensive scholarly complied bibliography.

Kentucky The Master Painters will make a good gift for those people who love the art and artists of Kentucky. Published by Cane Ridge Publishers 2008 and is available at national chains and select locations throughout Kentucky.

A brief introduction

2009-01-16T12:59:00.000-08:00

Let me first introduce myself. My name is Jerry Sampson. I've been involved in the antiques business on about all levels for almost seventeen years. I've been an active personal property appraiser for about ten of those years. I'm now an associate of the American Society of Appraisers and have been a member of this group since 2004. Hopefully I'll reach my goal of having my designation later this spring.

As an appraiser in my early years I'd often had questions regarding good books for the antiques trade and for appraisals. Things that I've learned the hard way. I want this blog to be for anyone who in interested in antique and collectible reference books. I want this to be contained to the review and discussion of books, periodicals, newsletters pertaining to antiques,collectibles and decorative arts. I'll start off by reviewing some newer copies of books and will progress into what I'll call the classics. I'm pretty strong on Kentucky subjects but I will of course have a broad spectrum of subjects. I encourage anyone with an interest to submit comments, recommendations or interesting facts. Let me know what books you find invaluable to your appraisal career or magazines that you use in your antique business.

This blog is only for review of reference books and NOT as a source for an appraisal. This is not the time or place for something as serious as appraisal work.

Bear with me as I get things worked out. I'm totally new to this and will try to have an interesting book every couple of days. Thanks, check back soon and tell your friends.

Getting Started

2009-01-15T13:58:00.000-08:00

Check back soon. I've got some great books new and old to review.
Thanks
J.