Collecting With the Kovels: American Art Pottery

Given the impressive credentials of the Kovels (the name to reckon with on the subjects of antiques and collectibles), this two-tape set which is inspired by their acclaimed book Kovels' American Art Pottery is a bit of a disappointment. Visually unimpressive, the opening volume features a brief introduction by Ralph and Terry Kovel, followed by a short history of art pottery in America (comprised of photos, many of which are used repetitively, and voice-over narration by the Kovels, who sound just like they're reading a script). The majority of the first volume is given over to histories and examples of the Rockwood, Cowan, and Chelsea-Dedham lines, with functional biographies and sample pictures of the wares. The second volume continues with segments on Ohr, Grueby Faience, Lonhuda, Teco, Fulper, Weller, Roseville, and Van Briggle pottery. Subtitled "A Video Guide to Makers, Marks, and Factory Histories," collectors will find the biographies and histories more interesting than useful, and the attention given to marks can't even approach the comprehensive approach of the Kovels' book. Likely to be popular, nevertheless, because of the name, this is an optional purchase for larger arts and crafts collections. (R. Pitman)