Dictionary of Design and designers, The Penguin (Penguin reference books)

This text is a comprehensive historical guide to design and designers, from the Renaissance goldsmiths, painters and engravers to the Bauhaus and beyond. The book consists of brief biographies of leading designers from 1450 to the present and, since the history of design is so closely linked with that of art and architecture, there are entries on the outstanding patrons and pundits of design, on exhibitions and institutions, on movements and styles, as well as on ornament, pattern books and periodicals. Until recently, design historians have tended to look at only the recent past, and that from a modern viewpoint. Here, the riches of the past are brought to light, as are many significant but, until now, neglected designers. Interested browsers, as well as designers and art historians should find this a useful sourcebook.