Four Centuries of American Furniture

I've had a hard time trying to find a good reference for someone who's a beginner at identifying furniture styles. This book is not necessarily an exciting read, but very informative. I wouldn't make for a very good field guide, given it's size and layout, but it does a very good job at explaining the styles and history of American furniture. The material is presented in chronological order by period/style.I think it would be nice to see a new edition of this book. At times, I find myself re-reading a paragraph or two, as the writing style is a little awkward. It would also be nice to see more visual examples, and less of the text based descriptions.

Required reading for a class. Dry text, poor b/w photographs. This book needs to be revised. Instructors, choose a better textbook than this.

This book is as thorough as it is readable. A comprehensive look at American furniture, Four Centuries will provide the reader with excellent photos and text. It is written in a style that is useful to both the expert and the newcomer to American furniture design. This book is a must for your library! RWP

A very useful and thorough book

Excellent book which I used in conjunction with a course taught by Mr. Fitzgerald.

My friend is enjoying reading the book very much since she has recently taken a class taught by the author.

very great and fast shipping A++++ Thank you so much!!

I have 25+ titles dealing with antique furniture and Four Centuries of American Furniture is, in my opinion, in the top three...a true "text book" of American furniture study. In this revised edition, Fitzgerald covers, in great detail, American furniture styles from the earliest settlers through the mid 20th century. Each period is covered in great depth, providing detailed info on the various regional style differences,how each one evolved, which countries influenced American furniture, as well as the many social and economic changes that influenced each style. I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in antique American furniture.