Description

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Since the 1930s, more than 1.5 million glass paperweights have been made in Britain. Here is the first comprehensive reference to identify them. Whether you have been given one paperweight as a gift and know nothing about the subject, or are a serious collector who owns hundreds of items, this book is certain to prove indispensable. For the beginner, the illustrations and listings will help in identifying your paperweight, as well as giving its value. The production of glass paperweights in Britain is due largely to the initial stimulus of one person, Paul Ysart, whose family settled in Scotland. Many Ysart paperweights never illustrated before are shown here, including a rare signed and dated butterfly, a magnum containing a metal badge, and a scrambled weight with butterfly portrait canes. Strathearn items include miniatures and magnums, and rarely seen illustrated brochures. Whitefriars lovers will appreciate the most comprehensive list ever published. Of the book's 360 color illustrations, over 60 are of Whitefriars, including more than fifteen highly important paperweights never illustrated before, such as the Royal Visit and a footed magnum over five inches in diameter. Caithness, John Deacons, William Manson, and Selkirk's ranges are well covered, as are many studio artists. Humorous stories and tales of production problems add to this book's appeal. By listing over 2,000 British paperweights, the author has provided a notable reference work that will be consulted for years to come.

About the Author

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John Simmonds has studied and collected paperweights for twenty-five years and built up a fine and varied collection of antique and modern examples. A retired technical executive in the chemical industry, he is also a qualified pianist and organist living in the South of England.