The Victorian Dining Room (A Schiffer Book for Collectors) by Brian D. Coleman (PT52)

Published 2003: First Edition / Hardcover / Very Good Condition / Illustrated throughout

Original pictorial laminated boards and original pictorial dust jacket. 176 as new very clean and bright pages, previous owners dedication on the contents page. Slight shelf wear might be expected. Scarce! (PT52)

Postage €6.95 including any additional books ordered
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(A Schiffer Book for Collectors)

Elegant dining rooms in the nineteenth century served an important role in the social discourse of the Victorian household. They tended to be "masculine" spaces and typically were filled with solid, heavily carved sideboards and tables, and draped with rich, velvet curtains. Sideboards "groaned" with the weight of opulent silver serving pieces, set off by the jewel-like tones of colored art glass vases and bowls. There could never be too many objects; after all, these were rooms that were meant to impress. So it was perfectly fine to have silver asparagus tongs or orange slicers, sitting beside the silver spoon warmer in the shape of a shell. This richly colorful book is a visual journey through the nineteenth century dining room. From the sideboard to the tea table, the serving pieces, silver, glass, and unusual Victorian oddities are presented. Through over 200 photographs, it becomes clear why the whimsical, beautiful, and sometimes bizarre products of that inventive and colorful time continue to astound and fascinate us. Also included is a facsimile of "How to Set the Table," a rare booklet from 1901, which will help the reader understand the variety and uses of the Victorian table setting. A Value Guide completes the work.

Brian D. Coleman, MD, divides his time between Seattle and New York. His articles have appeared in magazines ranging from Old House Journal, where he is the West Coast editor; to Period Living in the U.K. Brian is the author of seven books on the decorative arts, including the recent titles Farrow & Ball and Cottages.

Reviewed in the United States on 19 January 2009
Format: Hardcover
Verified Purchase
This is a really good reference book for anyone interested in how one dined formally during the late nineteenth century. Beautifully illustrated and enjoyable to read.

Reviewed in the United States on 29 July 2023
Format: Hardcover
Verified Purchase
A great reference book. I enjoyed learning all about the Victorian table.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/VICTORIAN-DINING-ROOM-Schiffer-Collectors/dp/