A sweeping survey of the early world of plastics is presented here in text and over 500 color photographs of celluloid toys, ornaments, jewelry, greeting cards, dolls, and much more. Advertisements from early twentieth century catalog pages futher chronicle the artifacts made with this enchanting early plastic. Celluloid objects of many forms and functions are included, ranging from holiday items and novelties to children's play things and utilitarian objects--all of which would have been found scattered throughout homes during the early decades of the twentieth century.
Additionally, a concise but colorful history of the development of celluloid is provided (including startling accounts of exploding billiard balls and curling dentures). Values are found in the captions of the objects illustrated. A bibliography is provided as well. This book is a fascinating look back at the celluloid products of yesteryear.