The Penguin Dictionary of Decorative Arts

The Penguin Dictionary of Decorative Arts serves as a comprehensive reference work covering furniture, ceramics, metalwork, textiles, and other decorative objects from ancient times through the mid-20th century. Each alphabetical entry provides definitions, historical context, and key information about styles, makers, and artistic movements. The dictionary contains over 2,000 entries written by art historian Hugh Honour, accompanied by black and white photographs and illustrations that help readers identify decorative elements and techniques. Technical terms and foreign language phrases commonly used in decorative arts are clearly explained with relevant examples. The book emphasizes Western decorative traditions while including significant coverage of Asian, Islamic, and other global artistic influences. Entries range from broad surveys of major periods to detailed descriptions of specific decorative techniques and individual craftsmen. This reference work reflects both the scholarly rigor of art history and the practical needs of collectors, curators, and enthusiasts seeking to understand the rich material culture of human civilization. Its scope reveals the deep connections between decorative arts and the social, economic, and technological forces that shaped different eras.

This reference book has limited online reader reviews available, making it difficult to assess broad reader sentiment. Readers note its usefulness as a reference for identifying decorative art periods, styles, and terminology. Multiple reviews mention the clear definitions and helpful cross-referencing system. Art students and collectors cite the book's value for quick fact-checking. Common criticisms include: - Limited illustrations compared to newer art reference books - Some entries are too brief - Information can be dated (last edition 1989) Review Scores: Goodreads: 4.25/5 (4 ratings) Amazon: No reviews available The few posted reviews are from academic and specialty library collections, rather than individual readers. One librarian review in Choice magazine called it "a handy desk reference for basic terminology" while noting its age limitations. No broad consensus can be drawn about reader reception due to the limited number of public reviews.

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🔷 Author Hugh Honour (1927-2016) worked closely with art historian John Fleming for over 50 years, co-authoring numerous influential books on art history and forming one of the most successful partnerships in art scholarship. 🔷 The Dictionary contains over 3,000 entries covering decorative arts from ancient times to the present, making it one of the most comprehensive reference works in its field. 🔷 First published in 1977, the book became a standard reference for antique dealers, collectors, and auction houses worldwide for identifying and dating decorative objects. 🔷 Hugh Honour was awarded the Mitchell Prize for Art History in 1979, largely due to his work on The Penguin Dictionary of Decorative Arts and its contribution to art scholarship. 🔷 The book's entries include not just furniture and ceramics, but also less commonly covered decorative arts like wallpaper, glass, metalwork, and textile design, providing valuable information about these often overlooked artistic fields.