Early American Furniture is a complete and thorough field guide. In addition to the discussion of period and style and the numerous illustrations found in most books on period furniture, this book covers other topics that are equally important to the collector: understanding the furniture trade, evaluating quality, investment potential, identifying period workmanship, the ins and outs of dealers, shows, and auctions, care and conservation, repair and restoration, documentation, insurance, problems of inheritance, and coping with the misrepresentation so often encountered in the market. This is a very practical book full of information needed by the collector, particularly by the collector of average means who does not buy from the larger dealers or attend the major auctions. Written by a collector for other collectors, it deals with the many problems in building a collection. The 400 black and white illustrations are finely detailed line drawings made from authentic pieces of furniture featured in the catalogs of some of the leading auction houses. The beginning or occasional collector or anyone curious about some old family furniture will adore this handy, easy-to-use guide.

Over 1700 of Skibinski's line drawings present a visual approach to the identification of antique furnishings. The book is arranged in chronological sequences (17th century through the early 20th century) by type of furniture, from tables and settees to desks and bookcases. Butler and Johnson have included some important information for the novice and the experienced collector: the sources of furniture used as models for the illustrations; lists of museums, art galleries, and special displays of outstanding collections of furniture; a selected bibliography and a glossary; the anatomy of a piece of furniture; and a brief history of the periods of furniture and furniture makers. Highly recommended for public libraries and other subject collections.

This book presents new information on the export trade, patronage, artistic collaboration, and the small-scale shop traditions that defined early Rhode Island craftsmanship. This stunning volume features more than 200 illustrations of beautifully constructed and carved objects—including chairs, high chests, bureau tables, and clocks—that demonstrate the superb workmanship and artistic skill of the state’s furniture makers.

Standard introduction and guide to identifying American antique furniture of all styles and periods prior to 1840. Over 1,000 photo-illustrations display hautboys, low-boys, tables, clocks, mirrors, sofas, chests, chairs, etc.

This publication documents The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection of early colonial furniture and presents a broad spectrum of furniture forms made in America during the 17th and early 18th centuries, including chairs and other seating, tables, boxes, various types of chests and cupboards, dressing tables, and desks. The volume also includes prime examples of the different modes of ornamentation in fashion during that period. Over 140 objects are thoroughly described, with detailed information given on each one's construction, condition, dimensions, materials, and inscriptions and other marks, as well as provenance and exhibition history. Every object is explained in terms of the styles and craftsmanship of the period and evaluated in light of comparative pieces in public and private collections throughout the country. Also included is one appendix containing photographic details of construction and decorative elements, and another with line drawings explaining furniture terms and showing various types of joints and moldings. This is the first volume in a series of two that is dedicated to American furniture in the Museum. -- Metropolitan Museum of Art website.