5 comments about Fountain Pens: Their History and Art.

1. This handsome volume reflects the high quality standards, cantankerous spirit, and eccentrically traditionalist preferences that seem to characterize many of us who are drawn to the impractical beauty we call insist upon calling fountain pens.
   
   An introduction and six chapters tell the story of this writing instrument, its long evolution, its demise in the twentieth century, and its rebirth as a collector's item here in our twenty-first. Five lavishly illustrated chapters meander their way from the pre-fountain-pen spectacle of rooms-full of 'inexpensive scribes' with quill in hand doing the work of a small iiterate class ('Pre-1880s: before the fountain pen', pp. 22-39) on to moderate levels of pen production ('1880-1910: early marketing efforts, pp. 40-52) to the rise of a corporate behemoth (1910-1925: competing with Sheaffer', pp. 54-85) to the fountain pen's twentieth century misfortuntes ('1930-1940: how the depression affected the market', pp. 86-107); '1945: the war: how bargain debasement nurtured the ballpoint pen', pp. 108-121) and finally to a day when--mirabile dictu--people write books about fountan pens ('The future: the rebirth of the cottage industry', pp. 122-128).
   
   Mr. Steinberg is neither an economist or sociologist and so given to amusingly sweeping explanations of pen life: 'By the 1930s the world was in the grips of the Great Depression. The public wanted to be dazzled by technological marvels to take their minds off their economic woes. Hence the uncommon popularity of the Schneider Trophy seaplane races and the land-speed record attempts ... For fountain pen design, the Great Depression made utilitarianism and functionality the order of the day.'
   
   However, Steinberg *is* a lover of pens and that's why he's a capable author of a coffee-table illustrated book like this one.
   
   One closes this book with several impressions forming themselves in his brain.
   
   First, there is the sheer technological challenge of making a pen where ink flows in the directions it's supposed to, with tolerable evenness, and a refusal to leak. This is one of those small technological adventures that culminates in something the rest of us take for granted rather than to the cleaners with ink stains around the pockets.
   
   Then there is the sheer variety that flourishes within somewhat unbending natural limits. As with dogs, there are only so many ways and means to make a pen. Yet the plethora of canine breeds on offer has its parallel in the dazzling display of pens of which photographs, paintings, and reproduced advertisements flavor this book.
   
   If you are so inclined, you may well find a resource that will educate your more thoroughly about fountain pens. But probably not with a more satisfactory outcome for the appreciative eye.



2. If you own three books on pens, this should be one of them.



3. I purchased this as a Father's Day gift for my dad, who is a fountain pen addict. He loved the book and the history, but especially the pictures of the old ads for some of the classic fountain pens. He continues to talk about the book and for about $20 I found a gift that has become one of his favorites.



4. This is a beautiful book. The covers and pages are of high quality papers. Steinberg has written a truly excellent book on history of the fountain pens. Though by no means it is comprehensive and detail but definitely more than adequate for any serious collectors as part of the essential knowledge on fountain pens. The illustrations are well laid out accompanying the story and they are simply superb. A very elegant book and suitable for both beginners and serious collectors. Even good as a gift to introduce someone to pen collecting. I simply love the book and a pleasure to read it.



5. I've received the book yesterday. It is not the first related to Fountain Pens that I see, but this one is really nice. It is not written as the others but as a review of the history and the kind of pens. I've read almost a half of it last night!

1 comments about The Collector's Encyclopedia of Dolls, Vol. 2.

1. collector's guide about dolls

2 comments about Antique Trader Jewelry Price Guide.

1. Antique Trader Jewelry Price Guide is a reference book featuring thousands of listings and hundreds of photos of jewelry of all styles. Featuring detailed overviews of every major type of jewelry produced in the past 200 years, Antique Trader Jewelry Price Guide is divided into four major sections, each relating to a different form of jewelry: Antique (1800-1920), Costume, Modern (1920-1960s), and Watches. Each jewelry listing has a short, clipped but descriptive listing and a price, often with a black-and-white photograph for additional clarity. There is also a limited selection of color photographs. Economical, practical, and easy to use, Antique Trader Jewelry Price Guide is a staple reference for any auctioneer, collector, or dealer in jewelry from the past two centuries. It is also an invaluable reference for theatrical costumers and historical fiction writers seeking detailed authenticity for their projects.



2. Brand new book featuring 304 pages with 400 nice black and white photos and a 16 page full color section. There is a useful introductory section describing the collectible. Each item description is quite detailed to help identify specific jewelry items. Major topics range from Antique (1800 to 1920) to Modern (1920 to 1960's). It is a very complete up-to-date guide that will be of interest and value to jewelry collectors.

2 comments about Warman's Glass: Values and Identification (4th Edition).

1. A detailed reference book for many types of glassware. If you are a collector you will find this book very informative.



2. Now in an updated and expanded fourth edition, Warman's Glass: A Value & Identification Guide compiled and edited by antique glassware expert Ellen T. Schroy is an superbly presented and illustrated price guide to more than 200 types of American and European Glass. Offering histories, references, clubs, and museums, Warman's Glass is accessibly structured in alphabetical order, and consists of entries offering brief and succinct descriptions of various individual pieces. Warman's Glass is an excellent catalogue and a reliable resource recommended for antiques dealers, auctioneers, hobbyists, and collectors.

3 comments about Elegant Table Linens: From Weil & Durrs Including Wilendur (Schiffer Book for Collectors).

1. I love this book! This is THEE book on vintage Wilendur tablecloths and towels, some of the most beautiful vintage linens produced, as far back as the 1920's. Shows over 400 gorgeous pictures of tablecloths, towels, aprons, curtains and more, all produced by the Weil and Durrse company, the manufacturer of Wilendur and other brands. Lots of great information on the history of the company and information on all of their brand lines. Absolutely wonderful, very interesting book. Also recommended "Collectors Guide to Vintage Tablecloths" by Pamela Glasell.



2. I take this book with me to antique shops and rummage sales. It's been a handy guide in identifying Wilendurs. So much fun!



3. The author provides a valuable resource for the collector, particularly for products of Weil & Durrse. Information on the companie's history is provided as well as current values based on condition. Fabrics, brands, colors and patterns are discussed and illustrated with the numerous photographs. Tablecloths are emphasised, but towels, aprons and other handicrafts are also covered. The author provides a useful chapter on storing and laundering linens as well. You will not be disappointed with the quality of the photographs, printing or insights offered in this volume. Highly recommended!

5 comments about The Bulfinch Anatomy of Antique Furniture: An Illustrated Guide to Identifying Period, Detail, and Design (Bulfinch Anatomy of Antique Furniture).

1. Don't buy from this vendor, the book was prepriced and they charged substanitally more plus the frieght. When contacted about it they asked for more imformation and pictures of the product then is required to get a social security number. They were bascially nasty with their attitude. Amazon should not list these people.



2. "The Bulfinch Anatomy of Antique Furniture" is not only a wonderful reference book with lovely illustrations and photos, but it makes a great coffee table book as well. I highly recommend this book. It is a great value for very little money.



3. Totally a collectors book has great pictures and wonderful information showes the designs well. helps you learn what to look for in antiques



4. This is an absolute sensational book! It is a book that must be included in your antiques reference library!
   It covers everything A to Z on the subject of identifying and authenticating period pieces. You WILL be able to identify period pieces once you've studied the book subjects. It offers hundred of pictures, with clear cut difinitions and examples.
   If you are an antiques dealer, beginner or expert, you will not regret owning this very comprehensive guide.
   I would also like to recomment The Bulfinch Anatomy of Antique Furniture; another must have reference book.
   *****



5. This volume provides a good reference for collectors of antique furniture. It includes a detailed chronology of styles and periods, coverering Europe and the US, and presents typical pieces of various categories of furniture, including details on construction. It is well illustrated. Unfortunately no relative values are provided. Also degree of rarity, popularity, etc. is also rarely mentioned.(A tip: I still think that Peter Philp's FIELD GUIDE TO ANTIQUE FURNITURE is much better. In fact, if you've got Philp's book, you don't really need this one).

5 comments about The Complete Guide to Shirley Temple Dolls And Collectibles: Identification & Value Guide (Identification & Values (Collector Books)).

1. Great pics of Shirley Temple Dolls & memorabilia organized by years-very thorough and helpful since I am a Shirley collector. Additionally, great tips on improving the looks of the dolls. Well done.



2. 
   This book is one of the best books on the subject of the Shirley Temple dolls (& other S.Temple Collectibles).
   Written on quality paper with excellent photos



3. I found this book to be very helpfull in finding what I needed to know on the dolls and clothes



4. I have two other Shirley Temple Price guides and I think book is just the most comprehensive. It has lots of pictures and includes all different Shirley Collectibles. It has pictures of a lot of rare Shirley Dresses and compo. Shirley's that were made in Germany, Australia, Great Britain. It is a nice large book and is a great reference guide. Love it!



5. This is the best ever book about Shirley Temple dolls. It is amazing. Filled with information and tips. This book could easily sell for double the price.

4 comments about The Ultimate Collector's Encyclopedia of Cookie Jars: Identification & Values.

1. I only wanted the book to identify and price an old cookie jar I have, so I really can't give much of a review, but I was dissapointed that the book didn't have more info (only the price) on my cookie jar.



2. The "Ultimate Collector's Encyclopedia of Cookie Jars" by the publishers of the old Cookie Jarrin' Newsletter, Fred & Joyce Roerig, I found a pure pleasure to peruse for weeks. It displays, in some of the finest photography of all the cookie jar books, many of the cookie jar classics. Along with smile fetching standbys (ABC Coffee Pot, McCoy Cookie Cabin, Twin Winton Sheriff Bear, etc.) are a feast of the best jars from the best producers.
   From American Bisque are the "Flashers", Little Audrey, Herman & Katnip, Baby Heuy, along with Umbrella Kids, Davy Crockett ((both) and Mohawk Indian (Little Mo). Brayton's Goose Woman, Maid and Ring Master are there. There's a picture of the old Brush Pottery Building along with their rarest including: Hillbilly Frog, Little Red Riding Hood, Hobby Horse and Puppy Police. On to California Originals there's their fun standards (Scarecrow, Little Red Riding Hood, Rabbit on a Stump, etc.) to their greats such as Snow White, Pinocchio(s), Bambi and the full color Woody Woodpecker. The section on McCoy is always fun with the Roerigs and this one does not disappoint. It begins with a full page Tony Veller and goes on to charm us with Two Kittens in Low Basket, Multicolored Leprechaun, Frosted Christmas Tree, Hillbilly Bear, Cookie Tug, Drum Majorette, two varieties of the Train Engine with Smoke, and a smorgasbord of their most popular jars. Again with Metlox there's the best of their regulars and a good mix of their "hard to find" jars including Ferdinand Calf, Flamingo, Mammy Scrub Woman, and Little Red Riding Hood. The Twin Winton chapter displays the entire Collector's Series, Shaggy Dog, and a good selection of their standbys. Conspicuously absent is any description of the Twin Winton Company. There's actually more dialogue on Don Winton in the Hirsh section than there is under Twin Winton. Treasure Craft's section focuses on their U.S.A. made jars with the exception of three jars made in Mexico. Even so, most of my Treasure Craft favorites are included.
   Among others there fun sections on Dorrane of California, Abingdon, L.A. Pottery, Cardinal, Maurice of California, Hull (including thier impossibly rare Little Boy Blue), Maddux, Roseville, Helen Hutula, RRP, Sierra Vista, NAC, Regal China and Shawnee. Among current producers/importers there's Clay Art, Vandor, Enesco, Fitz & Floyd (although their Table of Contents says Fritz & Floyd), and Lefton. Surprisingly missing here are Vandor and Warner Brothers. The "Unknown/Miscellaneous" section is only 2 pages long. Also absent are any of the studio producers (J.D. James, Corl's Kilns, The New Rose Collection, Happy Memories, Austin Curtis, Star Jars, McMe, etc.).
   To cover what's missing in the book would require several more pages. But the selection of cookie jars is what it is; the Roerig's opinion of what are the ultimate cookie jars and I enjoyed every page. There are updated prices that are as good as I've seen. Overall the jars covered are done so well that it's truly agonizing that the great producers are gone (McCoy, ABC, Twin Winton, Metlox, and on and on).
   I give the book my highest rating within the scope of what it strove to achieve. The jars included and the jars left out are a study in what the Roerigs are about. Always an interesting journey.



3. Great book for the cookie jar collector. The book will help you place a value when getting ready to purchase a cookie jar for your collection.



4. This fourth book by the author is very disappointing. Is a re-hash of the older books with no new jars featured. The newer manufacturers are completely ignored. The jars featured in this book have already been featured in the other 3 books. Price values seem low and anemic.

3 comments about The Gun Digest Blackpowder Loading Manual.

1. I got this book for my brother who is totally
   into collecting guns (no, he's not a scary guy!).
   He was thrilled when he got it.



2. The author (S. Fadala) is a recognized expert in the area of black powder shooting sports. The manual is well planned, referenced and provides a progressive experience in the use and feeding of black powder firearms. All areas of loading and shooting are represented in the manual. However, as might be expected, emphasis is placed on the rifle and pistol loads. Unfortunately, this does not carry over to the muzzle loading shotgun(s). This is an area that requires further work and shooters in this discipline might feel slighted.



3. Fadela has done it again. This seminal work, now in its third edition is updated and better than ever. Anyone, who uses a blackpowder rifle , pistol or shotgun should be equipped with this due to its sheer range of information.

   The book usefully covers the history of blackpowder rifles, what is avalible and basic care. Safety is emphasised, complete with enough horror stories to ensure one is always careful.

   Basic loading techniques are covered- flintlock, and cap lock for all types of firearm. The illustrations are clear, and the text nicely liad out and readily understandable by even the most novice shooter. Even the expert would learn a lot from Fadala in some of his tips- I certainly did. The rest of the book covers loads for practically all (I certainly am unaware of any brand that has been missed) blackpowder and pyrodex muzzle loaders in the market today. Loads are suggested together with ballistics. I have checked the figures with my own rifle and they are spot on. Everything is covered from .75 Cal Smoothbore "Brown Bess" Flintlocks to .32 cal cap lock squirrel guns. There is no critism that can be made of this book but for binding which is a soft cardboard- yours will soon fall to bits as it is taken to ranges and on shoots. Other than that- highly recomended.

   Grade: A+

No comments about California Pottery Scrapbook: Identification and Value Guide.