These four pocket guides are portable treasure troves of information for collectors, bargain hunters, junk shop browsers and even dealers. Small and concise for easy reference, they also contain full colour pictures and detailed drawings which will take the guesswork out of buying, bidding and bargaining at auctions, and also add to the enjoyment of this task. "The Antiques Roadshow Pocket Guide: Small and Decorative Furniture" is organized into short chapters to allow instant access to every stage of collecting. It serves as an introduction, beginning with a short history of furniture. Two sections - on how to date furniture and how furniture is made - broaden the reader's understanding of collecting. Each type of furniture has its own section, which in turn covers the entire range which exists therein; the tables section includes tripod tables, side and writing tables, while the evolution of dining chairs is a feature of the chairs section. A separate section looks at small pine furniture and chests. Each of the four pocket guides contains a checklist of points to watch out for when comparing original condition and bodged renovation. There is also an informative section on the care, maintenance and insurance of your furniture; while the useful glossary of terms uncovers the meaning behind the language that antique dealers use.
