Noritake : Jewel of the Orient

Rating:
Summary: A treasure trove of information for Noritake lovers
Review: This is one of the most complete sources of information on Noritake I've come across, featuring full-color photos (with enlargements of pattern details) of many, many Noritake patterns as well as an up-to-date price list. Potential buyers should be aware that the focus is on patterns made before 1960. There are specific chapters on the Azalea Pattern, scalloped and multisided patterns, backstamps and a detailed bibliography (for those who want to do more research), glossary, an explanation of how to find specific patterns, etc. The historical info, while not lengthy, is clear and sufficient to satisfy all but the most obsessive collector. I learned quite a bit that I didn't know before and found many, many patterns which I'd seen online and at auctions but hadn't been able to locate elsewhere. It was an extra pleasure looking at the photos of actual ads, including those from Morimura Brothers (a company whose success at matching Japanese production with American designs led directly to the birth of Noritake). This book was an absolute delight to read and one I plan to use again and again.