Читать книгу Carved & Decorated European Art Glass - Ray Grover - Страница 10

FOREWORD

EXPOSING THE COLLECTOR AND DEALER to the outstanding achievements of the masters of carving and decorating art glass in Europe during the latter part of the 19th, and first part of the 20th century, is the primary consideration of this book. From the technical accomplishments of the fine English cameo glassmen to the individual expression of the artist, exemplified by the French school, dominated by the designer, botanist, and innovator, Emile Gallé, we have photographed, in color, types of glass that are considered to be among the finest examples in their field.

This glass is seldom offered for sale, and can generally only be seen in the original locales. Visiting the small, but great, museum collections in Nancy, France; Dusseldorf, Germany; and the Stourbridge area of England requires a full day's normal travel time from the major centers of ship and airline transportation. If at all possible, a trip to these top points of interest will stimulate and educate those who wish to further pursue the great study of glass. These museums are not always open, and require appointments.

We have included samples of English and Continental glass which best illustrate a wide range of technical and artistic accomplishment. Based on our adage that "knowledge is recognition" we used only large-sized plates in full color.

Please note that the height only is shown, in inches, no diameters or widths being given. Measurements, for practicality, are to the nearest one-quarter inch.

As in our first book Art Glass Nouveau, all pieces were personally examined, and with the exception of several transparencies that were made available by the individual owners, we did the actual photography ourselves. Again we urge readers to visit the museums listed here, as well as all others with art glass exhibits.