Collector's, artists, and students will treasure this compendium of wood engravings that presents a wealth of authentic material depicting the designs and tastes of America in the 1890s. These examples of Victorian American luxury articles -- selected and reproduced from the original mail-order catalogues in which they appeared -- are carefuly arranged for easy reference and use. With the close of the nineteenth century, a flourishing economy brought increased prosperity to Americans, along with a corresponding demand for new and finely crafted goods. The deaprtment store had not yet made its way into rural society, and colorful catalogues from large mail-order houses satisfied avid consumers by supplementing the wares of local merchants. These wishing books, as they were known, carried a conucopia of goods with something to suit every fancy. It is from such unique and enticing sources that these engravings are drawn. There are watches, fobs, chatelaines, and shaving goods to attract the discerning eye for the impeccably groomed gentleman; rings, brooches, and toilet articles appeal to the whims of the proper lady. Elaborate bowls, glassware, and cutlery invite the hostess to choose the perfect table setting. You'll find a celebration of ornate surface decoration n this wide variety of motiffs and shapes, as well as a broad selection of material that reveals a great deal about everyday life in this period. A Source Book of Antiques and Jewelry Design is a designers wishing book -- a treasury of period engravings that captures the fashions and atmosphere of a bygone era, and provides and invaluable resource for design history and ideas.
Price: $17.95
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