Paperweights from Great Britain 1930-2000
by: John Simmonds
2000, Schiffer Publishing, Atglen, PA
192 pages, $49.95 hardbound.
flyleaf: “Since the 1930s, more than 1.5 million glass paperweights have been made in Britain. Here is the first comprehensive reference to identify them. Whether you have been given one paperweight as a gift, and know nothing about the subject, or are a serious collector who owns hundreds of items, this book is certain to prove indispensable. For the beginner, the illustrations and listings will help in identifying your possession, as well as giving its value. Established collectors are treated to numerous delights.
The production of glass paperweights in Britain is due largely to the initial stimulus of one person, Paul Ysart, whose family settled in Scotland. Many Ysart paperweights never illustrated before are shown here, including an exceedingly rare signed and dated butterfly, a magnum containing a metal badge, and a scrambled weight with butterfly portrait canes. Paperweights by Strathearn include miniatures and magnums, and rarely illustrated brochures are reproduced. Whitefriars lovers will appreciate the most comprehensive list ever published. Caithness, John Deacons, William Manson, and Selkirk’s ranges are well covered, as are many studio artists.
Of the book’s 360 color illustrations, over 60 are of Whitefriars and these include more than 15 highly important paperweights never illustrated before, such as the Royal Visit and a footed magnum over 5” in diameter.
Humorous stories and tales of production problems add to this book’s appeal. By listing over 2000 British paperweights, the author has provided a notable reference work that will be consulted for years to come.”
