M. H. TILTON FURNITURE COMPANY

Lincoln, Nebraska: (1927). Oblong folio, (14.5" by 10.5") 221 pages, bound in a scrap-book style similar to large fabric and wallpaper sample books. Maroon cloth over boards held together with brass screws. Trade catalogs of American furniture are far more difficult to find than house plans. It is most unusual to find one of this size, with this range of items. Obviously intended to be used as a sample book by a retail establishment, rather than as a promotional mailer to individuals. The book is organized in seven sections, each with a heavy card cover sheet listing the category and page numbers of the section with printed tabs for easy reference. One of the tabs lists "Congoleum" but there is no material about the floor covering included and the page number has been left blank, indicating that part of the catalog had yet to be printed, rather than removed. There are the expected oversuffed chairs and turned spindle table legs..but a substantial portion of the sample book is dedicated to Arts and Crafts and Mission style. Of particular interest relating to bungalow decor are twenty-seven pages of "Fiber Reed Goods" featuring outstanding wickerwork furnishings and lamps for sunporches. The finishes available for these settles, chairs, swings, lamp bases and shades, et al, are delectable. "Satin Finishes: Natural, Fumed, Nut Brown and Green" and "Enamel Finishes: Old Ivory, Frosted Brown, Frosted Mahogany, Cafe au Lait, Royal Blue, Chinese Blue, Bronze and Blue, Bronze and Green, Black and Gold and Verdi Copper." The last section of the book is dedicated primarily to "Baby Cabs" and Toys, including wicker carriages and strollers. Fine illustrations of cycles, metal cars, wagons and scooters. The binding has quite a bit of staining and wear, including some fraying of the cloth but both covers are complete and totally sound. The name of the firm is bright and clear against a background of metallic silver. The last reference tab is chipped and the others browned, else the contents are fine. The M. H. Tilton Company, founded in 1886, sold furniture and floor coverings to the trade from their location at 6th and L Streets, Lincoln, Nebraska. A rare and fascinating trade catalog with a wide range of appeal! (Extra Postage Required)