The book contains some 475 black and white and 56 colour photographs, accompanied by detailed and informative captions. The illustration of so many fine pieces, as well as unusual items, superbly photographed, would in itself have earned this book a place on the shelves of anyone seriously interested in the subject. But there is an added bonus. A firm like Norman Adams prospers by the skill of the selection in buying - a `good eye` - and it is this essential facility, succinctly expressed in the captions to the pieces in this book, which will ensure its lasting reputation as an important work of reference.