Miller's Antiques Encyclopedia Reference Edition - Hardcover

Judith Miller has an in-depth knowledge of antiques and the antiques market. The team of 40 international consultants include Paul Atterbury, Bunny Campione, Gordon Lang, Hugo Marsh, and John Sandon, all well-respected in their fields and known from their appearances on the BBC's Antiques Roadshow. From the USA, experts include Stacy Marcus Chidekel (Director, Christie's NY), Marybeth McCaffrey (Associate of J. Alistair Duncan, NY), David Rago, and Orlando Rock.

First published in 1998 and last revised in 2003,  Miller’s Antiques Encyclopedia was created to “substantially and comprehensively further the dissemination of knowledge about antiques and collectibles to both new and more experienced collectors.” It is a familiar sight on a lot of public library reference shelves, and many of its antiques-themed cousins, such as Miller’s Advertising Tins (1999), Miller’s Teddy Bears: A Complete Collector’s Guide (2001), and Miller’s Sci-Fi and Fantasy Collectibles (2003), are readily available. A recently launched Web site features “a fully illustrated, searchable database of tens of thousands of authenticated antiques and collectibles, each with a full description, size and price” (www.millersantiquesguide.com). This volume is arranged into 17 chapters covering antiques by both type and period, for example, “Ceramics,” “Glass,” and “Postmodernism.” Each chapter is subdivided into short sections. For example, “Mid-Century Modern” has sections on furniture, jewelry, lighting, domestic wares, and more. A highly detailed 20-plus-page index provides access to individual pieces by artisan, manufacturer, style, name, and place. A “How to Use This Book” section offers clear explanations of the book’s many special features, such as value codes, makers’ marks, and dimensions that accompany the hundreds of high-quality photos. Overall, the explanatory text accompanying each antique is written simply enough for beginners but includes enough detail to benefit experienced collectors. Miller’s Antiques Encyclopedia is a very nicely done reference work. It should be given serious consideration by public librarians and by academic librarians whose collections support programs in fine art, history, and studio projects. --Art A. Lichtenstein