Phono-Graphics Slipcase [Hardcover]

Arnold Schwartzman (Author)

Product Details

• Hardcover: 120 pages
• Publisher: Chronicle Books; First Edition edition (July 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0811803023
• ISBN-13: 978-0811803021
• Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 6.8 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,533,853 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Unique, Delightful...Joyful All Around, January 2, 2005

By 

Danielle Bennignus - See all my reviews

This review is from: Phono-Graphics Slipcase (Hardcover)

Arnold Schwartzman must have known he was onto something good when he thought up this little book - it's time had certainly come, and it serves such a great purpose so beautifully, it stands as a real treasure for phono-philes, and folks who just plain love vintage illustration.

"Phono-Graphics" focuses on early phonographs, and their accompanying advertisements, accessories, immortalizations, and all and sundry ephemera. From the classic Barraud painting of Nipper listening to "His Master's Voice" to the later Victrola Electric Portable players of the 1950's, this little book covers it all. Pristine vintage machines are featured in glorious color photographs - cylinders, mahogany morning glories, cabinet models and everything else, by all makers, of course. Ads from all over the world beckon to bygone buyers with clever slogans, vibrant colors and compositional appeal. The accessories boggle the mind with their sheer numbers and styles - needle boxes, paper dancers (which must be seen to be believed), wax cylinder boxes, picture discs...the list goes on.

The book, as well, serves as an invaluable research tool for collectors, restorers and lovers of the wonderful music that only 78's can provide - the number of machines depicted is staggering. I own two Victrolas and have researched the company for years, and, until I found this book, never knew that there was such a thing as a "Schoolhouse Victor". A real eye opener, and an indespensible resource.

Even if you're not a phono-fanatic, if graphics are your thing, this is such a joy on that level, as well. The artists employed by phonograph manufacturers were supremely gifted, and their work shines here. The lines, colors and flow of the illustrations are a joy to behold, and serve as a great tribute to a great era in advertising.

So, although this book is small (119 pages, and about 7" X 7"), it's well worth the purchase price. You'll find plenty therein to enjoy, and open your mind a bit. It's a must-have for my fellow phonograph junkies, and certainly a promising little discovery for artists, as well.