Victorian Etchings
RICHARD AND CAROLE SMYTH, antiques dealers, first discovered pyrography, a Victorian decorating technique, at the Brimfield, Mass., antiques shows 20 years ago. The couple, who are English, have collected more than 500 pieces decorated by early 20th-century hobbyists who burned designs into wood furniture, boxes, wall plaques and mirrors.
The Smyths have written a book about pyrography called "The Burning Passion," which is available for $22.95 including shipping (New York State residents must add 8.5 percent sales tax) from Carole Smyth Antiques, P.O. Box 2068, Huntington, N.Y. 11743; (516) 673-8666.
The rack for ladies hair ribbons, part of which is shown above right, is $125; the smoking set right, is $295.  CURRENTS