This pocket-sized guide to identifying and interpreting metal and ceramic marks has been improved with the addition of the most recent hallmarks, along with details of the new hallmarking system.

The most common marks found on antique ceramics, 1600s to 1900s, hand-drawn and with identification and dates used. These are the marks that appear in today's market under ordinary conditions. Includes America before 1890, Austria, Belgium, Bohemia, China, England, France, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Short entries give factory histories with names of relevant people and explanations of date markings.

This pocket-sized guide to identifying and interpreting metal and ceramic marks has been improved with additional hallmarks along with details of the updated hallmarking system. Do you attend car boot sales or browse in antique shops in search of bargains? Have you ever wished you knew more about grandma's silver spoon? Do you envy the experts' ability to identify and date old hand-me-downs? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, Collins Gem Antique Marks could be for you. Packed with thousands of clear illustrations, the book shows hallmarks on silver, gold and platinum, as well as those on Old Sheffield Plate, pewter, pottery and porcelain.

Marks are one of the collector's most important tools when it comes to identifying and dating antiques. Of course, it is important to understand that they should never be relied upon completely, as many have been copied or faked. What you should rely on is experience. Handle as many antiques as you can and learn to combine your knowledge of marks with the knowledge of how an authentic piece looks and feels. Whether you are buying at auction, flea market or antique shop this is the book you need to identify and date what you find. More than 6,000 marks are organized for quick, at-a-glance reference with full-colour sections on silver, Sheffield plate, bronze figures, ceramics, glass, costume jewellery, toys and dolls. This comprehensive guide can be kept handy to identify antique finds and valuate them from a catalogue of the most common marks that you will encounter, as well as any unidentified treasures you already own.

An essential little ebook – perfect for the pocket or art bag – covering all practical aspects of sketching and drawing. Sketching is a skill that every artist needs to master and this handy book shows you how in a very clear and simple way.

Gives essential background of silver and silversmithing, followed by a grounding in hallmarking systems worldwide, with a chapter on some of the most famous English makers. Covers items most favored by collectors and by those wishing to buy silver to use. Discusses over fifty different types of object, from beakers to tankards, candlesticks to pincushions, cigarette cases to mustard pots, together with practical advice on what to look for and what pitfalls to avoid. Also, suggests where and how to buy silver and then how to care, clean, and store it.

It took George Perrott and his wife more than seven years to complete this book. It is compiled in date order and consists of marks from the factories of Europe, USA, Japan and China. It covers approximately 10,000 marks and references. It commences with the Ming Dynasty of 1368 and takes the reader through the 15th century 'Maiolica' period of the Italian Renaissance, the German and French 'Faience' of the 16th century, the early 17th century Dutch 'Delft' wares and continues on to the great factories of Europe including Meissen, Sevres, and the English factories of Wedgwood, Minton, Spode Doulton etc. The major part of the book concentrates on older marks but a significan effort has been made to include marks from factories and potters that are currently in business and still producing their wares today. More than 500 companies throughout Europe, USA, and the Far East contributed to this project. Collectors Clubs and Museums were also a great source of information. This publication is in fact one of the most original marks books to come onto the market in recent times. It must be the first of its kind that catlogs the marks, factories and potters in date order giving added perception of their time in history. If you are a collector of porcelain and pottery or you deal in it as a profession this book is a must for your bookshelf.

First published in 1998, Miller's Antiques Encyclopedia has gone on to sell more than 150,000 copies worldwide and been published into seven languages. This new edition includes a thoroughly updated directory, list of suppliers and up-to-date price codes for each item. Compiled by an international team of over 40 consultants and writers, and offering clear and wide-ranging coverage of antiques and collectables, this book contains valuable information for both the enthusiast and the experienced dealer. An extensive glossary explains the terms used throughout the book and clear cross-referencing leads you into related areas of interest. All the traditional areas of collecting are featured, with extensive sections on furniture, ceramics, silver and glass. More specialist subjects, such as jewellery, scientific instruments, Oriental art and sporting memorabilia are also included. Clearly and logically organised, practical and packed with absorbing and useful information, Miller's Antiques Encyclopedia is an invaluable aid to collecting and the definitive reference book on the subject.

A wonderfully illustrated celebration of the blood, sweat and joy to be had 'growing your own' in an allotment - with the in-depth, practical gardening know-how Collins is renowned for.