This volume investigates the identification, historical context, and valuation criteria for American decorative and folk art objects. Sotheby's, a global leader in the auction market, utilizes its extensive archival data and expert appraisal standards to provide a framework for collectors. The text serves as a systematic guide to distinguishing authentic period pieces from reproductions and understanding the cultural significance of various craft traditions.

Experts and collectors frequently cite this text as a foundational reference for understanding the material culture of early America. The prose is noted for its clinical precision and reliance on institutional expertise, making it a standard resource for those entering the antique market.