A World of Necklaces: Africa, Asia, Oceania, America 
asked by steelers on November 4, 2006 6:09 AM
A World of Necklaces-the fourth book in a series that also features rings, bracelets and earrings-demonstrates the importance and variety of the remarkable Ghysels collection of ethnic jewelry.
The forms, colors and materials of these necklaces are astonishing, while the modernity of some pieces in the collection has not escaped the notice of contemporary jewelry designers.
It is rare for jewelry to have a solely aesthetic purpose, for above all it is anchored in the social, religious and political contexts that lend it meaning. Throughout this book, the author sets out to untangle the intricacies of the way necklaces are used and what they signify. She describes the materials and draws attention to the originality of the craftsmen, who have contributed to the enrichment of a cultural heritage that has long been under threat and which this collection is helping to preserve. The book includes over 300 superb photographs, a glossary, an index, maps and a general bibliography.
The forms, colors and materials of these necklaces are astonishing, while the modernity of some pieces in the collection has not escaped the notice of contemporary jewelry designers.
It is rare for jewelry to have a solely aesthetic purpose, for above all it is anchored in the social, religious and political contexts that lend it meaning. Throughout this book, the author sets out to untangle the intricacies of the way necklaces are used and what they signify. She describes the materials and draws attention to the originality of the craftsmen, who have contributed to the enrichment of a cultural heritage that has long been under threat and which this collection is helping to preserve. The book includes over 300 superb photographs, a glossary, an index, maps and a general bibliography.
Reviews
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In my opinion, this book was much larger than it really needed to be and therefore more expensive than it really needed to be. I felt like I was seeing some of the same pictures over and over again. I actually looked back a few times to make sure it wasn't the same necklace. The best necklace is actually pictured on the cover, which i guess would make sense. However, I was hoping for more necklaces as interesting as that one on the inside. Many are very nice and have excellent detail, but it actually got boring seeing so many similar items. I wish it would have contained less of the same stuff so that it could have been more reasonably priced. Overall it is a nice book (beautiful photography, nice paper and binding) as long as you don't mind spending that much money. After spending as much on the book as I did, I did not feel I got my money's worth. I can't imagine paying full price for the book. I expected much more for that price.
reviewed by bigwinner on November 23, 2006 2:08 PM
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I got this book as a gift and loved it so much that I bought the others in the series (earrings, rings, bracelets). The photos are gorgeous, full-page color beauties and the detailed notes that correspond with each photo are easily found in the back section of the book (where they don't interfere with the photos). If you love jewelry and love learning about ethnic pieces, you'll enjoy this book.
reviewed by maxmill on November 26, 2006 4:05 AM