Author Description

The exploding popularity of toy collecting today has enthusiasts hungry for information on playthings from the past. In response to this need, toy expert and auctioneer Tim Luke has created the first comprehensive encyclopedia of important international toy makers that influenced generations of American children. From cuddly favourites like teddy bears and baby dolls to popular boys' toys like Lincoln Logs, Tinker Toys and American Flyer wagons, the pieces in this lavish book will kindle memories and inspire collectors. This unprecedented volume includes hundreds of colour photos, identification clues and behind-the-scenes stories of some of the most exciting recent discoveries of rare toys, as well as world-record-setting auctions. Mr Luke, former vice-president at Christie's auctioneers and a regular appraiser on the popular television programme the Antiques Roadshow, guides readers through the histories of 80 key companies, and brings his personal expertise to outlining key identification aids and collector alerts.