Glossary

Peppered with unusual terms and descriptive phrases, the language of the antiques world is colourful to say the least. With our handy glossary, you'll soon be able to distinguish your maiolica from majolica and your chinoiserie from cloisonne.

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Click one of the letters above to be taken to a page of all terms beginning with that letter.
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Van Briggle

The company was founded by Artus Van Briggle, who chose to focus on organic shapes for his ceramic vessels. Artus was keen to experiment with matt glazes and in 1900 succeeded in discovering the secrets of the lost glazes of the Chinese Ming Dynasty.

Vaseline Glass

Greenish-yellow, smooth glass, resembling the ointment, produced during the Victorian period.

Veneer

Thin layers or strips of usually fine wood applied to a carcass of much coarser wood.

Verre Églomisé

A way of decorating glass by gilding it and engraving designs in the gold leaf.

Vitrine

A glass-fronted cabinet used to display silver, china and other treasures.

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