The Milk Glass Book by Chiarenza, Slater

Although the word "milk" to describe a certain type of glass may have been used initially to distinguish "opaque white" from transparent glass, "milk glass" today is considered neither necessarily white nor entirely opaque. Indeed, as illustrated by the more than 450 beautiful photos in this book, objects made form milk glass span a wide sprectrum of both color and diversity.

Drawn from the extensive private collections of members of the National Milk Glass Collectors Society, the majority of pieces pictured here have not appeared in any previous books devoted to milk glass. Even long-time collectors will be surprised to see items they have never encountered before. American, English, French and other foreign manufacturers are represented, dating from the mid-nineteenth century to the present. Some pieces, although well known, are shown for the first time in extremely rare colors. A special section of the book is devoted to extensive treatment of individual items that have puzzled collectors for years or whose distinctive qualities merit special attention. Highlighting the book are twenty-four pages from two early catalogs of the French glasshouses Vallerysthal and Portieux, reprinted in full color and illustrating exquisite pieces. A checklist of some major manufacturers of milk glass, selected readings, a complete index, and a value guide are also provided.

A must for the collector and lover of milk glass, this well-documented book will appeal to all who appreciate the beauty and artistry of finely-made glass.