The Magazine Antiques - Mount Vernon Decorative Arts Reference Issue, February 1989
February 1989 issue of The Magazine Antiques, devoted to Mount Vernon and early American decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, silver, portraits, gardens, and restoration studies associated with George Washington's historic estate. A scholarly and richly illustrated reference issue for collectors, decorators, and students of Americana.
Overview
February 1989 issue of The Magazine Antiques, centered on Mount Vernon and the decorative arts, architecture, interiors, and collections associated with the historic estate of George and Martha Washington. This substantial reference issue brings together essays by museum scholars and decorative arts specialists examining furniture, ceramics, silver, portraits, gardens, restoration work, and the broader material culture of early America.
The issue functions almost as a focused study volume rather than a routine periodical. Articles explore the restoration of the house itself, portraits of George and Martha Washington, Mount Vernon furniture and ceramics, George Washington's study, silver, jewelry, and prints connected with the estate and its interpretation. Rich photography and academically grounded writing helped establish The Magazine Antiques as one of the defining publications in the American antiques trade during the late twentieth century.
For collectors of Americana, Washingtoniana, Federal furniture, early American interiors, or historic house references, themed issues such as this remain genuinely useful working resources. The publication also retains decorative appeal, with sophisticated editorial photography and design characteristic of the magazine's strongest period.
This example shows honest age and handling wear consistent with use as a reference copy rather than a preserved collector-grade archive specimen. Dampstaining is present through approximately page 410, though generally light. The cover retains strong visual presentation overall despite modest wear and a dog-ear at the lower right corner.
Dating / Background
Published in February 1989, this issue reflects the mature editorial era of The Magazine Antiques, when the magazine served as an important scholarly and market-facing publication for dealers, collectors, curators, and decorators. Mount Vernon has long occupied a central position within American decorative arts scholarship, making this issue materially stronger than an ordinary back issue due to its cohesive and enduring subject focus.
Why Collect
Collectors increasingly seek subject-specific issues of historically important antiques publications rather than generic runs. Mount Vernon remains one of the best-known historic house museums in the United States, and reference material tied to early American decorative arts, Federal interiors, Washingtoniana, and restoration scholarship continues to maintain cross-category interest. This issue works equally well as a shelf reference, decorative studio material, or collectible Americana ephemera.
Dimensions (inches)
- Height: 11 7/8
- Width: 9 1/8
- Depth: 3/8
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
Condition
Dampstaining affecting through approximately page 410; generally light in appearance. Dog-ear to lower right cover corner. Spine shows some wear and fading. Otherwise a solid and usable reading/reference copy with good remaining presentation value.
Why Buy From tonyofatlanta
Established, knowledgeable dealer with a curated eye. Accurate descriptions and true-to-life photos. Prompt, secure, professionally packed shipping. Friendly, responsive service; reasonable offers welcome.
