Early American Furniture: A Practical Guide for Collectors

Rating:
Summary: Highly Recommended!
Review: Early American Furniture: A Practical Guide for Collectors by John Obbard is filled with information about all aspects of furniture from this period. Chapter one starts with an overview of the furniture trade, followed by understanding period and style, evaluation of quality, identifying period workmanship, and identifying fakes and frauds. Each type of furniture has its own chapter (wing chair, Windsor, chest of drawers, desk, highboy, etc.). There are many illustrations, but the only photographs are on the cover. With all of this information covered, one can sense that this book states concepts "straight to the point". For example, on page 64, there is a paragraph which states to look for a detached shoe or two part shoe and that this is something to note with old furniture. A beginner is not going to grasp that concept from the paragraph and illustration. Regardless, this is a good review source for the experienced person or a good outline for a beginner. I have spent three times the price of this book for many with less information.

Rating:
Summary: Highly Recommended!
Review: Early American Furniture: A Practical Guide for Collectors by John Obbard is filled with information about all aspects of furniture from this period. Chapter one starts with an overview of the furniture trade, followed by understanding period and style, evaluation of quality, identifying period workmanship, and identifying fakes and frauds. Each type of furniture has its own chapter (wing chair, Windsor, chest of drawers, desk, highboy, etc.). There are many illustrations, but the only photographs are on the cover. With all of this information covered, one can sense that this book states concepts "straight to the point". For example, on page 64, there is a paragraph which states to look for a detached shoe or two part shoe and that this is something to note with old furniture. A beginner is not going to grasp that concept from the paragraph and illustration. Regardless, this is a good review source for the experienced person or a good outline for a beginner. I have spent three times the price of this book for many with less information.

Rating:
Summary: Early American Furniture-A Practical Guide for Collectors
Review: Finally, an antique furniture book that I can shove into my glove compartment and easily access at a moments notice! All the information I need is right there. A wonderful reference guide and great illustrations!! Thank-you Mr. Obbard for creating a very practical guide for us "on the go" collectors!

Rating:
Summary: If you are interested in Early American Furniture, read this
Review: Having been sent this book as a present by a friend in the US, I felt I must tell others just what a treasure trove it is. It has been written by someone who not only obviously loves his subject, but who has written a clear, easy-to-read amd well-illustrated guide for those of us who have developed an interest in early American furniture but who lacked expertise. It also tells you how to care for furniture. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Rating:
Summary: Best Guide for the Collector
Review: Whether you're a collector or would-be collector of american furniture, this is the single must-have book for you. Well-written and quite readable, this book is more than just a reference. Its engaging style and informative nature will make it hard to put down.It'll help you spot the best quality pieces and recognize those that have been tampered with. For the new collector buying from auctions or dealers, this book is priceless. It'll help you spot the best quality pieces and recognize those that have been 'restored'. If you want to really know what your colllecting, get this book first!