AMERICAN SILVERPLATE     by Dorothy T. and H. Ivan Rainwater, Thomas Nelson Inc., NY, 1968/1972. 

Profusely illustrated with color and mostly black-and-white photographs and illustrations, this comprehensive text provides an in-depth study of  antique American silverplate.  “Now in this one volume, you find a complete history of silverplating materials, refining processes, and design changes.  Color illustrations and more than 500 photographs and line cuts depict the full range of silverplated articles from Colonial days to the present.  Reviewing the evolution of American silverplate, you’ll see our changing lifestyle vividly portrayed – in the simple hollow ware of early America, the ornate styles of the Victorian era, and the geometric designs of today.” 

Over one thousand items are pictured and identified in this early out-of-print book on American antique silverplate.  A rich narrative reviews the history and makers of American silverplate.  Chapters cover the following topics:  historical background, early electroplating and the rise of factories, manufacturing and marketing, patented processes, development of styles, exhibition and presentation silver and ornamental art works, silverplate for table and house use, small silverware and novelties, lighting devices, flatware and the care and restoration.  The addition of a glossary, bibliography and index round out this richly informative text, created with the cooperation of many silversmiths, government agencies, historical societies, museums, private collectors, scholars and by the International Silver Company.   Whether a novice or advanced collector of antique American silver, one will want to add this invaluable book to their permanent reference library.   

7” x 10” hardback with dust cover in very good condition.  480 pages.  This book has a salutation signed by the authors.

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