The term "Victoriana" means many things to many people, and has been used on occasion to denote objects that resemble anything made during the Victorian era. Here the author wisely limits his coverage to objects actually produced during the reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 to 1901. Room by room, this entertaining guide takes the reader through a typical middle-class Victorian home, discussing activities that took place in each room and describing objects normally found there. Individual entries include, whenever possible, a description of the object's uses, variety, and value as a collectible; a photograph; a list of price ranges; and a selected reading list. While one might quibble over a few points (e.g., the author refers to crocheting as "a form of knitting"), this guide is both thorough and readable and the accompanying bibliography is up to date. Highly recommended where interest warrants. (Index not seen.)-- Janice Zlendich, California State Univ. Lib., Fullerton
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Reader Reviews
I am doing a Victorian dollhouse and I got this book out of the library just to see if it would be of help to me in planning my furnishings. It turns out that the author has gone room by room, describing the use, appearance and items you would expect to find in each. It is exactly what a miniaturist wants to know. So - I am ordering one for my very own. Anyone who is fascinated with Victoriana should like this book since Mr. Mace really gives you an Insight into the Victorian era and a feel for life during that period. While most of the book's illustrations are black and white, they are clear and several color plates are included. He includes price ranges for collectors as well but since this book was published in '91, they would be of limited use.
Back To Top
