Glossary

This glossary was compiled using the glossary in Discovering Antiques: A Guide to the World of Antiques and Collectables by Eric Knowles.

Art Deco: The first truly modern style which made full use of mechanised production and new materials. The name derives from the first major exhibition of decorative arts held after the First World War.

Art Nouveau: The new style, short-lived and excessive, which thrived between c. 1880 and 1914. Characterised by curving, swirling organic forms and, particularly, the whiplash motif, the name derives from a shop opened by Bing in Paris in 1895. Known in Italy as "stile Liberty," in Germany and Scandinavia as "Jugendstil," and in Austria as "Secession."

Arts & Crafts: A 19th century movement, led by William Morris and his artist and designer companions in Britain, which sought to challenge increasing industrialisation by reintroducing the medieval concepts of craftsmanship.

Chippendale: The generic term used to describe furniture in the style associated with the English designer Thomas Chippendale (1718-1779) who published the first comprehensive book of furniture designs, The Gentleman & Cabinet Maker's Director.

Chronograph: An instrument for recording time with immense accuracy.

Earthenware: A porous piece of pottery made from clay, lightly fired and still pervious to liquids. A glaze is needed to make it waterproof.

Federal Style: An American style, mostly seen in furniture, which came into being after the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and following the neo-classical style in Europe.

Flatware: In silver terms, cutlery, and in ceramic terms, pieces which are relatively flat such as plates, dishes, and saucers.

Neo-classical: The style which dominated Europe during the late 18th century, inspired by the architecture and ornament of ancient Greece and Rome following the excavations of Herculaneum and Pompeii.

Polychrome: The term used by dealers and experts to describe an object painted in a variety of colours.

Provenance: The history of an object. This might include when, where, and by whom it was made, and its previous owners. Good provenance can add interest and value to a piece.

Reserve: a. The minimum price an object can be sold for at auction, reached in agreement with the seller. b. An area on pottery, porcelain, or textiles which is left free of colour, ready for painting and free of the ground colour.

Rococo: The decorative style which found its fullest flowering in France between 1720 and 1760, characterised by asymmetrical forms, "C" and "S" scrolls, and the rockwork inspired by Chinese gardening. More diluted forms of the style travelled to other parts of Europe. The style was revived during the early 19th century.

Stoneware: A hard, dense, non-porous pottery made from clay and feldspar which, although not translucent or white in appearance, is often compared with porcelain.

Definition of an "Antique"
How to Learn About Antiques
A Brief History of Antiques
Why People Collect Antiques
Major Categories in Antiques
Factors Influencing Value
Tips for Finding and Buying
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Caring for Your Collection
Insuring Your Collection
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