For enthusiasts of antique cookware and kitchenalia, simply acquiring, cleaning, and showcasing trivets isn’t enough. Understanding their history, origin, and purpose adds a layer of depth and appreciation to these humble yet fascinating objects. Among the wealth of resources available to collectors, one stands out as an indispensable guide: A Collector’s Guide to Trivets & Stands (1990), affectionately known as the “Blue Book.” This comprehensive work, the result of a decade-long collaboration between Rob Roy Kelly and James Ellwood, remains the definitive reference for trivet collectors.
A Collector’s Guide to Trivets & Stands catalogs over 1300 trivets and stands, and continues to be a pivotal resource. This hardbound book delves into the rich history and intricate details of these often-overlooked pieces of Americana. What makes this book so valuable?
- Ironmaking in Colonial America: The book provides a historical backdrop, exploring the origins of ironmaking in Colonial America and its impact on the development of trivets.
- Methods and Techniques: It elucidates the various methods and techniques used in casting and finishing trivets, providing insights into the craftsmanship involved.
- Makers and Distributors: A Collector’s Guide to Trivets & Stands includes information on the makers and distributors of trivets, along with product descriptions and stock numbers, offering a valuable resource for identifying and cataloging your collection.
- Trivet Designs and Evolution: Kelly and Ellwood trace the evolution of trivet designs through time, revealing how these functional objects also reflect changing aesthetic tastes and technological advancements.
- Dating Trivets: The book equips collectors with the knowledge needed to determine the age of a trivet, from understanding manufacturing processes to recognizing stylistic features.
- Extensive Catalog Section: The catalog section (pages 97-254) is organized by category and function, presenting nine trivets per page. While mostly in black and white, brass and ceramic tile trivets are showcased in color, offering a visual feast for the enthusiast.
James Ellwood supplemented the book with an eight-page Price Guide, initially included with the 1990 edition and updated in 1998. While the prices listed may no longer reflect current market values, the guide remains helpful in establishing relative values and understanding the rarity of different trivets.
For many collectors, including myself, A Collector’s Guide to Trivets & Stands has been an invaluable resource and source of inspiration. Receiving a copy in 1994 was a turning point, providing answers to long-held questions and opening up new avenues of exploration. The book served as a guide to identifying unusual and rare trivets, fueling the passion for collecting.
The “Blue Book” has become an indispensable tool. Over the years, multiple copies have been worn out, with the current edition adorned with Post-it® flags and filled with notes, questions, prices, and collector contacts. This heavily annotated copy accompanies on trips to auctions and antique shows, serving as a constant companion in the pursuit of trivet knowledge.
Rob Roy Kelly, a graphic design educator, historian and collector, brought his expertise to the project, ensuring its comprehensiveness and accessibility. His background in design and history helped shape the book into a resource that is both informative and visually appealing. The collaboration with James Ellwood, an experienced antique dealer and trivet collector, combined academic rigor with practical knowledge, resulting in a truly exceptional collector’s guide. Kelly’s contributions extended beyond just compiling information; he also brought a critical eye to the design and layout of the book, ensuring that it was both user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing. His passion for typography and design is evident throughout the book, making it a delight to browse and study.
Although A Collector’s Guide to Trivets & Stands is out of print, copies are still available through online retailers like Amazon Books and eBay. For anyone serious about collecting trivets and sad iron stands, this book is an absolute must-have, continuing to educate and inspire generations of collectors.
