DeTnk’s Must Read Book of the Month

10th December ’09

This month, we highly recommend picking up a copy of ‘Star Pieces: The Enduring Beauty of Spectacular Furniture’ by David Linley, Charles Cator and Helen Chislett.

‘Star Pieces’ is a highly selective history of furniture ranging from the Ming dynasty, through Italian baroque and Biedermeier, to 20th and 21st century pieces. The book is full of absolutely stunning illustrations, but, despite its aesthetically pleasing layout, this is no mere coffee-table book. The highly informative text and captions that accompany the illustrations give an in depth discussion and analysis of styles. They also offer practical advice on commissioning and looking after pieces of furniture, which is vital for any collector to know.

Among the discussed works is a good representation of renowned contemporary designers including Studio Job, Fredrikson Stallard, Pablo Reinoso, Marc Newson, and several others. Author, David Linley insists that eccentric pieces such as the ones produced by these designers have relevance within the sequence of design; they ‘can help thread our past and possibly our future.’

David Linley is the UK chairman of Christie’s auction house. For ‘Star Pieces’ he has collaborated with furniture historian Charles Cator (deputy chairman of Christie’s International), and interiors and decorative-arts writer Helen Chislett.

‘Star Pieces’ is a must read for all those interested in collectable design (not to mention a fantastic holiday gift).

Visit the DeTnk Bookstore to get your copy now.