This is a lavishly illustrated survey of the J. Paul Getty's collection of illuminated manuscripts from Belgium and the Netherlands. During the Middle Ages, the region now occupied by Belgium and Netherlands flourished economically and artistically. While widely known as the era of Jan van Eyck - the master oil painter - the 15th and 16th centuries also witnessed the greatest flowering of the art of illumination anywhere in Europe. The region's colourful, naturalistically painted books were eagerly sought after across the continent. "Illuminated Manuscripts of Belgium & the Netherlands" is a magnificently illustrated volume that includes works by the finest and most original artists for the most discerning patrons - "The Prayer Book of Charles the Bold", illuminated by Lievin van Lathem for the Duke of Burgundy, 1469; "The Visions of Tondal" by Simon Marmion for Margaret of York, Duchess of Burgundy, 1475; "The Spinola Hours", 1510-20, considered to be one of the most important Flemish manuscripts of the 16th century; and "The Brandenburg Prayer Book", illuminated by Simon Bening for Cardinal Albrecht of Brandenburg, 1525-30.

The practice of handmade craft has undergone a huge resurgence in recent times. This book captures the new mood a return to the unique and the artisanal. The first part of the book profiles over seventy international artisans who represent an astonishing array of crafts. The profiles include information on what inspires each artisan and how they create their products, often in innovative or eco-conscious ways. The second part of the book consists of an invaluable directory of products, divided into categories: art, ceramics, furniture, glasswork, jewelry, lighting, metalwork, paper and woodwork, stationery, tableware, and textiles. More than 800 color photographs illustrate the huge variety of design work on offer exquisite paper flowers, handthrown pots and jugs, beaded necklaces, folk-inspired knitted scarves, handblown chandeliers, wooden table lamps, embroideries, and more. Resources include: contact details for the artisans, recommendations of shops, websites, and blogs to visit."