I have this book and I can assure anybody who thinking of purchasing it that it is an absolute excellent read. I have to honestly say that this is the best produced book I have in my very large glass library. It is superbly written, well laid out with tons and tons pics and very interesting info. The definitive reference read on decanters, bar none! highly recommended.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/The-Decanter-Ancient-to-Modern-by-Andy-McConnell-2018-Author-signed-copies/202550384807This encyclopedic new edition of 'The Decanter', the result of nearly 20 years research, is the most approachable history of fine glassmaking ever published.
In presenting the subject across a broad timescale - spanning ancient Mesopotamia to the modern day, The Decanter explores the history of glassmaking from a decanter perspective. The engaging, accessible text explores the stylistic & technical evolution of fine glassmaking alongside its influences & social uses.
The book comprises full-colour 544 pages, 165,000 words & 2,650 images that illustrate over 3,500 examples. The images have been drawn from a stock of 10,000s, from institutions & private collections.
Andy McConnell is a British journalist specialising in antique & vintage glassware. He is the author of 'The Decanter, An Illustrated History of Glass' [2004] & '20th Century Glass' [2006]. He has also been the Antique Roadshow's glass specialist since 2005.
Here are some comments about 'The Decanter, Ancient to Modern':
‘Decanters have always been favourites for designers. What an impressive array of individuals… fantastic portraits of a neglected group.’
Bertil Vallien. Designer: Boda, KostaBoda, 1963-. Sweden.
‘Andy’s skill at writing & researching The Decanter will be perused & enjoyed by countless people long after we are gone. A masterpiece!’
Wayne Husted. Designer: Blenko, 1952–63, etc. United States.
‘Andy’s appreciation of the way glassware reflects the social as well asthe physical & aesthetic forces of its making is acute & subtle. His exuberant delight in the infinite capacity of glass to express creativity & practicality is matched by his capacious knowledge. It impels one to select areally good glass, imbibe & then admire.’
Maria Balshaw, Director of Tate Galleries.
‘It is fantastic! Full of beautiful, clear images for identification, & the writing is always informative, sometimes funny & easy to understand.
Björn Arfvidsson, Swedish Glass Museum, Växjö.
’This book is amazing! It will be one of the seminal works in glass field. I will buy it & recommend it to my friends & contacts.
Markku Salo. Designer: Nuutajärvi / Iittala, 1992-. Finland.