In 'Chats on Old Copper and Brass' by Fred W. Burgess, readers are taken on a fascinating journey through the history, techniques, and artistry of these ancient metals. The book delves into the significance of copper and brass artifacts throughout various civilizations, providing insights into their cultural and symbolic meanings. Written in a clear and engaging style, Burgess combines historical facts with personal anecdotes, making this a highly readable yet informative text for both scholars and enthusiasts alike. The literary context of the book highlights Burgess's deep knowledge and passion for the subject, offering a meticulous examination of each topic discussed. His attention to detail and meticulous research make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in the art and history of metalwork. Fred W. Burgess, a renowned expert in the field of metalwork, brings his wealth of experience and expertise to 'Chats on Old Copper and Brass.' His lifelong dedication to studying these materials is evident in the thoroughness of his analysis and the depth of his insights. This book is a testament to Burgess's commitment to preserving the legacy of copper and brass craftsmanship. I highly recommend 'Chats on Old Copper and Brass' to readers seeking a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and artistic significance of these timeless metals.

Excerpt from Chats on Old Copper and Brass The collection of old metal may at first sight appear a somewhat unattractive hobby; a moment's reflection, however, brings to mind the wonderful art treasures of metal in our museums, gathered together from many parts of the world; not necessarily of the precious metals, for many of the most cunningly contrived objects of antiquarian research are of copper in one or more of its numerous forms of alloy. Copper is the basis of so many alloys of which metallic curios are formed, that in its combination with other metals it gives the collector an almost inexhaustible field of research. It was the metal of the ancients, which in combination with tin gave them that useful metal with which to fashion weapons of offence and defence, and later, as the Bronze Age advanced, utilitarian objects of household economy. Collectors find the Age of Metals unfolding as they arrange their collections with orderly sequence, and thereby trace the progress of artificers throughout the periods which have intervened since the first bronze celt was moulded to the present day. About the Publisher Forgotten Books publishes hundreds of thousands of rare and classic books. Find more at www.forgottenbooks.com This book is a reproduction of an important historical work. Forgotten Books uses state-of-the-art technology to digitally reconstruct the work, preserving the original format whilst repairing imperfections present in the aged copy. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in our edition. We do, however, repair the vast majority of imperfections successfully; any imperfections that remain are intentionally left to preserve the state of such historical works.

The study of old silver usually begins when the inquiring possessor of the family plate sets himself the task of ascertaining the date and the probable value of some piece long in his family and possibly lately bequeathed to him. With old china, and probably with old furniture, the taste for collecting is oftentimes an acquired one, but it is in the Englishman's blood to ruminate over his old plate, and the hallmarks of the assay offices in London and in the provinces, in Scotland and in Ireland, have been placed thereon with aforethought. The plate closet is cousin to the strong-box, inasmuch as the coin of the realm and gold and silver plate have been subjected to stringent laws extending over a period of five hundred years. The technical word "hallmark" has become a common term in the language synonymous with genuineness. The strictest supervision, under the parental eye of the law, has upheld the dignity of the silversmith's guarantees. Hence the pride of possession of old silver. Pictures and furniture and engravings whose ancestry is doubtful thrust themselves in the market without fear of the watchful official eye. But old silver bearing the hallmarks of ancient and honorable guilds of silversmiths, stamped at the accredited assay offices, is, with few exceptions, what it purports to be. It is a proud record and a splendid heritage. It is, therefore, the author's hope that this volume will stand as an authoritative outline history of the subject of which it treats, that it may point the way to possessors of old silver to arrive at sound conclusions as to their heirlooms, and that it may indicate to collectors the salient features of their hobby.

In 'Chats on Old Sheffield Plate' by Arthur Hayden, readers are taken on a detailed exploration of the history, design, and craftsmanship of Sheffield Plate. Hayden meticulously examines the significance of Sheffield Plate in the decorative arts, providing in-depth analyses of various pieces and their intricate patterns. Written in a scholarly yet accessible style, Hayden's work offers a comprehensive look at this important aspect of silverware production during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, making it an essential read for historians, art enthusiasts, and collectors alike. With its rich descriptions and informative content, 'Chats on Old Sheffield Plate' serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the evolution of silver plate design and production. Arthur Hayden's expertise in the field of decorative arts is evident throughout the book. As a renowned authority on antique silverware, Hayden's passion for the subject shines through in his meticulous research and insightful commentary. His comprehensive knowledge and engaging writing style make 'Chats on Old Sheffield Plate' a must-read for those looking to delve into the world of antique silver craftsmanship and history. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of decorative arts or seeking a deeper understanding of Sheffield Plate's cultural and artistic significance.

Vols. for 1898-1968 include a directory of publishers.