Chinese Antiquities book review

Amber: From Antiquity to Eternity

Book Review by Eric J. Hoffman

by Rachel King. Reaktion Books, London, 2022. 272 pp, 104 illus (93 in color). Cloth, decorative endpapers, color illus d.j., 9-1/2 x 7 inches. $40.

The popularity of amber as a gem has led to many recent books on the subject. Two were even reviewed by ASJRA, including one on inclusions in amber. Do we really need another amber book? This well-written and up-to-date book suggests the answer is "yes."

The author begins by describing what amber actually is, how it forms, where it’s found, and how it differs from its lesser and younger cousin, copal. Until fairly recently “amber” meant Baltic amber (succinite), which dominated the market. More recently, however, Dominican and Burmese amber (burmite) have become more widely known.

An entire chapter discusses amber in legend and myth, in ancient Rome and China especially. A particular strength of this book, it sets it apart from previous books you may have on amber. Pliny the Elder actually came closest, in ancient times, to understanding the nature of amber (but not its age). Another whole chapter explains where and how amber is found, mined, and collected. The earliest amber discoveries, sources, and trade routes are described, including such ancient artworks as a Danish amber animal carving almost 13,000 years old.

The reader is warned about forged and fake amber, along with modified, pressed, reconstructed, and bonded amber. Many of the ancient fakes were egg-yolk based; nowadays amber is copied in modern synthetic plastics. Inclusions in amber are highly valued and therefore especially prone to fakery ... even museums have been fooled.

The chapter “Accessorizing with Amber,” plus another on artistic works in amber, will be of particular interest to ASJRA members. There is also an extensive discussion of early and modern amber museums. Displayed amber is subject to degradation and many examples, including chandeliers and even entire thrones, have been lost for reasons that are explained. Of course the Amber Room is the most famous of the “Lost Ambers.” The Amber Room inspired many non-fiction books, novels, movies, and even computer games. The book concludes with an extensive section of notes and references, a 59-entry bibliography, and an index.

This book is especially strong on the historical and artistic aspects of amber and so will readily complement other books you may already have on the subject. Clearly written and beautifully illustrated, it will be a valuable addition to your gem library.

Originally published in ASJRA Newsletter, August 2023.