A definitive reference on the ring bit, considered by some as one of the most humane and effective bits for a horse bridle. From as far back as the fourteenth century cavalry units of European, Middle Eastern, and Asian empires through the Spanish Colonial Period to today, this book offers insights into the history, function, and uses of the ring bit. In addition to the story of the ring bit, examples of early Moorish and Arab ring bits, as well as 16th-century Spanish bits are beautifully portrayed in detail. While no longer the bit of favor, the book documents modern uses of the ring bit in many parts of the world today. This is an ideal resource for collectors, horse riders and trainers, loriners, smiths of all kinds, and historians

In the early days of television, people attempted to protect themselves from the new machines with bright talismans--creative lamps that provided back light that was believed to protect the eyes. These lamps took on fantastic forms, the most popular among them being panthers and other animals like Siamese cats. They came in any number of forms, though, and sometimes doubled as vases or planters. Herein nearly 400 photos explore the many forms of TV lamps, from a barnyard full of horses, roosters, ducks, and swans, to all manner of conveyances like boats, wagons, and cars, and an international collection of people and faces. Current market values are provided for the collector and antiques dealer.

The innovative designs in silver jewelry made in Europe and North America in the 20th century are fascinating and highly popular today. This new book starts with the end of Victorian styles, just before the turn of the twentieth century, and proceeds to display and explain the relationships in Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mexican, Native American, Mid-century Realistic, and Modern Abstract styles right up to the 1990s. Beautiful color photographs clearly show the details, makers' marks, and fine workmanship that make each piece of jewelry fascinating to so many collectors today.

Chester County is one of the three original counties formed in 1682 in southeastern Pennsylvania by William Penn under Charter signed by King Charles II. The architecture created there bears out the settlers mostly British roots. This survey includes homes, barns, out buildings, and commercial properties built here from the county's 17th century beginnings through the 19th century. Hundreds of overall and detail photographs and select plan drawings are included to illustrate a few of the buildings.