A guide to the history and value of Catholic collectibles, most from 1800 through the 1900s. Rosaries, medals, crosses and crucifixes, representations of saints and holy people, and more are presented through more than 400 pictures and text. Catholic religious art has been created and displayed in churches and cathedrals for centuries. At the same time, on a much more humble scale, religious artifacts and artistic expressions of holy objects have been displayed in the homes of both the wealthy and the poor in Christian countries. In recent times there has been a surge in interest in the acquisition of these articles by both Catholics and Protestants, not only for their beauty but also for their spiritual inspiration. This work focuses on everyday devotional objects at reasonable prices.

In the past ten years, antique textiles, especially those from France, have become very popular for interior decoration. In her easy-to-read style, the author gives a basic history of French textiles from the Middle Ages to Art DA (c)co. 416 beautiful color photographs demonstrate traditional and contemporary uses for tapestries, cottons, linens, laces, embroidery, needlepoint, and trims. Suggestions are given for their use in contemporary interior and home dA (c)cor. Answers to frequently asked questions are very helpful to the novice and connoisseur alike. The clearly stated text explains how to recognize these fabrics in the marketplace and what to look for when purchasing them. A range of values for the examples shown reflects the current antiques market. \nThis is a book for the general public as well as for designers. Readers will gain the confidence to add a creative touch or note of elegance to their decorations and designs with antique textiles.