This authoritative reference work, edited by the renowned art and antiques expert Huon Mallalieu, provides a comprehensive global history of decorative arts across various categories, including furniture, ceramics, silver, and textiles. Mallalieu is a highly respected historian and a longtime columnist for Country Life, known for his deep knowledge of watercolors and fine art. The book features contributions from several specialists and is lavishly illustrated with high-quality color photographs that trace the evolution of styles from the Renaissance to the modern era. The volume is in good used condition; the dust jacket shows light shelf wear with some minor scuffing and small indentations to the edges, while the interior remains bright and clean with a firm binding.