Antiques Encyclopedia is a comprehensive reference work edited by Judith Miller, bringing together the expertise of an international team of specialists to provide an accessible guide to antiques and collectables. This Reference Edition was published by Mitchell Beazley in 2005 and runs to 560 pages, with ISBN 9781845331504. Bibliographic records identify it as the 2005 Reference Edition, with numerous colour and black-and-white illustrations.
Judith Miller was one of the most recognisable names in the world of antiques publishing and a founding figure behind the Miller's series of collecting guides. Her approach combines specialist knowledge with practical information, making this volume useful to both experienced collectors and those developing an interest in antiques and decorative arts.
Antiques Encyclopedia is organised for ease of reference, with individual subjects divided according to type, material or country of origin. Extensive coverage is given to traditional collecting areas including furniture, ceramics, silver and glass, while the scope extends to jewellery, scientific and medical instruments, Oriental art, sporting memorabilia and other specialist categories.
The book is particularly valuable for its emphasis on identification, dating and understanding the characteristics of different objects. Readers are given practical advice concerning materials, techniques, makers' marks and other clues that can help establish what an object is and where it fits within the history of design and manufacture. Cross-referencing throughout the volume also encourages further exploration of related subjects.
The breadth of the coverage makes Antiques Encyclopedia useful beyond traditional furniture and household antiques. Collectors interested in Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern design, toys, clocks, watches, textiles, rugs, dolls and Oriental works of art will find relevant material. The combination of specialist contributions, illustrations and practical reference information gives the book considerable value as a general collecting guide.
For anyone interested in identifying unfamiliar objects, researching the history of antiques or building a broader knowledge of the collecting world, Antiques Encyclopedia is a substantial and informative reference. This 2005 Reference Edition is particularly appealing to collectors, dealers, auction enthusiasts and students of decorative arts who appreciate having a wide range of subjects brought together in a single volume.
Condition: Very Good - Light shelf wear present. Prior ownership bookplate on front end page.
