Jewels of Fantasy. Costume Jewelry of the 20th Century by Cera, Deanna Farneti (editor) - 1992

NY: Harry N. Abrams, 1992 HC, DJ, 10 x 11 3/4, red cloth, gilt letters, 408pp, 633 illustrations including 500 plates in color, glossary, technical guide, bibliog, index, lenders list, production history, lists of manufacturers and identifying marks. This book and corresponding exhibition shows the stylistic development of costume jewelry during the 20th century in Europe and America. Over 600 pieces are illustrated with detailed descriptions and designer marks for each. Selections cover pieces from the U.S., England, France, Italy, Germany, Austria and Czechoslovakia, and show the finest and most significant examples of 20th century costume jewelry. Essays by leading scholars in jewelry and the decorative arts show how new manufacturing techniques and the development of simulated materials encouraged new ideas in costume jewelry, using such materials as rhinestones, glass, semiprecious stones, French jet, lacquer, mother-of-pearl, horn, celluloid and more. Following each chapter is a short history of the manufacturer, artists and their marks, and a detailed description of each illustration of the jewelry including the designer's mark. A lavish, beautifully illustrated book, the definitive work and necessary reference on 20th century costume jewelry. Originally published in Italian, this the English language translation and is the first U.S.edition. Fine/Fine. 1st Edition. Hardcover. Fine/Fine.