Bidspirit auction | Rare Art Reference Guide Signed
Rare Art Reference Guide Signed by the Authors – ”Guide to Russian Works of Art” (1980) - A unique reference volume and important professional resource for collectors and luxury antiques dealers: Guide to Russian Works of Art by experts Paul L. Paulson & Maria Paulson, published in Washington, D.C. in 1980. The guide serves as a fundamental working tool for the study of Imperial Russian art and decorative arts, covering five principal decorative categories: • Bronzes: sculptures and metalwork objects. • Enamels: fine craftsmanship and polychrome decoration (as illustrated by the traditional kovsh depicted on the cover). • Icons: Orthodox Christian religious art on wood and metal. • Porcelain: chinaware from the Imperial workshops. • Samovars: traditional Russian tea urns — designs and maker's marks. A unique collectible item — signed by the authors: The inner title page bears a warm personal dedication in the hand and original signatures of both authors, Paul and Maria (inscribed December 1993): ”To Janet and Jacob ~ to get a taste of the splendid Russian Art! Affectionately yours, Maria and Paul” 122 pages, softcover. 422 g. The book (in its original softcover) is preserved in very good condition. The title page and interior leaves are completely clean, with no stains, scribbles, or loose pages, and the text and illustrations are clear and sharp. The cover shows light, natural shelf wear at the edges typical of the book's age (approximately 45 years), with no structural damage. A prestigious, signed, and rare reference item, suited to collectors of Russian art, Judaica, and antiques.