Decorative Vintage Ironwork, a Pictorial History

Essential History of Art hardcover book with dustjacket. Published in 2002 by Parragon Publishing of Bath, England. Illustrated, 256 pages.  

Made in Murano, Making Art with Glass. Softcover book, stated first edition published in June 1999, 73 pages. A Short History of Glass. Softcover book, published in 1990 by Harry N....

A History of Art by Sir Lawrence Gowing. A large coffee table book, hardcover with dustjacket, published by Barnes and Noble in 1995. Printed in Spain, illustrated, 992 pages.

The Natural History of Selbourne by Gilbert White. A large hardcover book with top-edge gilt in a brown card slipcase. Published in 2009 by The Folio Society of London. Illustrated, ...

A vintage Afghan Pictorial map rug from the mid-20th century. Measures: 3' 0" x 4' 10"

Antique map titled 'A Pictorial Map of the United States of America Showing Principal Regional Resources, Products, and Natural Features'. This information-packed map was create by the General Drafting Company for the New Jersey Bell Telephone Company. The main map features over 700 drawings in full color including points of interest, natural resources, and agricultural products. At bottom are inset maps showing railroad lines, air routes, telephone lines, as well as a pictorial map of New Jersey...

An original hand-colored map of the Département d'Indre-et-Loire created by Victor Levasseur in 1856. As an antique steel engraved map, it showcases the detailed craftsmanship and technology of mid-19th century map making. The method of steel engraving allowed for precise and intricate details to be captured, making this map not only a navigational tool but also a work of art. The addition of outline hand colouring is particularly noteworthy. This technique, where colours are applied by hand to the engraved map, was a common practice at the time to highlight certain features such as boundaries, rivers, and cities. The hand colouring on this map would have been done meticulously, adding vibrancy and clarity to the engraved lines and making it easier to differentiate various geographical and political demarcations. The map's wide margins are characteristic of the period's presentation style, offering space for additional annotations or simply serving to frame the map aesthetically when displayed. Such margins also suggest that the map was intended for a discerning audience, possibly for educational or decorative purposes in a library or study. Victor Levasseur was renowned for his decorative maps, often embellished with artistic elements that went beyond mere geographical information. These elements could include vignettes, allegorical figures, and detailed illustrations surrounding the map itself, reflecting the cultural, historical, and economic aspects of the depicted area. While the description does not detail these decorative aspects, it's common for Levasseur's works to feature such embellishments, making his maps highly prized among collectors and historians for both their artistic value and cartographic accuracy. This map of Département d'Indre-et-Loire, with its combination of technical precision in steel engraving and the beauty of hand colouring, represents a fascinating intersection of art and science in the 19th century. It is a testament to the era's dedication to detail, craftsmanship, and the aesthetic presentation of information. The Département d'Indre-et-Loire, located in the central part of France within the region known as the Centre-Val de Loire, is rich in historical and cultural significance, with numerous important places highlighted on a map from 1856 by Victor Levasseur. Based on the region's known historical sites and cities, the following places are likely to be featured or of importance: 1. **Tours**: As the capital city of the Département d'Indre-et-Loire, Tours is a central hub of history, culture, and architecture. It is known for its old town, the Place Plumereau, Tours Cathedral, and its proximity to the Loire River, making it a likely focal point on the map. 2. **Amboise**: This town is famous for the Château d'Amboise, which is closely linked to French royal history and offers panoramic views of the Loire River. Leonardo da Vinci is buried here in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, associated with the château. 3. **Chinon**: Known for its medieval fortress, the Château de Chinon, this town has deep historical roots, including connections to Joan of Arc and King Charles VII. The fortress and town would be significant landmarks. 4. **Villandry**: The Château de Villandry is renowned for its beautiful Renaissance gardens, which are some of the most impressive in France. While the château might be less emphasized in an 1856 map compared to cities and towns, it's an important site in the region. 5. **Loches**: This town features the Château de Loches, a medieval castle, and the Royal Lodge, noted for its Renaissance architecture. The town's history and architectural landmarks make it a place of interest. 6. **Azay-le-Rideau**: The Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is set on an island in the middle of the Indre River, showcasing the French Renaissance architectural...

A book on one of the 20th centuries greatest metalsmiths. Brandt was one of an extraordinary group of artist-craftsmen which included people such as Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Jean Puif...