Good book for a beginner trying to learn about Meissen. It both verified and dispelled things I had read and heard. Had hoped for more content about identifying "royal" Meissen and it's copy cats. While there is a nice section about other meissen, there were no photos of the identifying marks. I did find a minor incongruency. A picture on page 122 identifies 8 dessert plates as being "c.1850-1887", yet on page 117, the author describes a crossed sword mark on the front of the plate as appearing in plates from 1888 and after. The mark is clearly seen in the picture on the left plate. In all I do like the book and recommend it. The photos are excellent and it is well written. I will absolutlely use it as a reference.
The coverage of the entire Meissen line is very nice. The photography is excellent and the descriptions and history of Meissen factory works is very well done. I was hoping to find a catalog of the Blue Onion porcelain designs. This isn't it. It has a lot of the Blue Onion but doesn't really help one to gauge prices or understand all the variations of items that are out there on the market. It did offer a good explanation of the quality grading marks used by the factory. I was also hoping to find an historical recount of the meaning of the Meissen numbers - which refer to individual painters - but this too was not in the book. So, great reference item with nice photos but don't buy it as a catalogue.
The history of Meissen and the presentation of the various marks and signage make this book worthwhile. With a publication date of 2006, the values are not even close to real world in that most items are just not bringing that kind of money now. If you use the photos to get a "feel" for the patterns and nuances of certain periods, this book is tremendous. If you are looking for a picture of a piece that you bought at an auction or flea market, you will most likely be disappointed. Overall, I would rate this reference book highly and definitely a must-have for the Meissen enthusiast.
This Meissen guide is very helpful, with many beautiful pictures, and a good history of Meissen porcelain and background about the town. It's definitely worth the investment, especially if you sell or collect Meissen. I even found a photo of an antique plate almost exactly like one I had just bought. I too wish it had more photos, listings and prices...hope they come out with a new version with more! A great part of your overall Meissen library.
I bought the Meissen Identification And Value Guide by Jim Harran, Susan Harran (2005) about 3 weeks ago. It is a must have book. Clear pictures, discriptions and price guidelines are very helpfull. The history of the Meissen factory is very informativ. I have yet to find a similar book like this. My only complaint is, I would like to see the book twice as big. I am looking forward to a new guide if another is in the works. Thank you for this outstanding product.
Great reference book, complete and easy to understand. Will assist when reviewing products and estimating value. A must for you Collector Books Library.
Very Valuable Book! Must have for collecting Meissen Porcelain! Very Valuable Book! Must have for collecting Meissen Porcelain! Very Valuable Book! Must have for collecting Meissen Porcelain! Very Valuable Book! Must have for collecting Meissen Porcelain!
Good book for Meissen identification and prices. Not as comprehensive as I was hoping, but still full of information.
Interesting information on the historical background of MEISSEN. Clear details of items of Meissen ware with good information on value. The pictures are both informative and colourful. A book which could be read with interest by those with no knowledge of Meissen, those with a yearning to learn more, or those with a good preliminary knowledge.