Gift ideas -- arts, literature, books for children; Decorative arts since 1620s; American Decorative Arts: 360 Years of Creative Design, by Robert Bishop and Patricia Coblentz. New York: Harry N. Abrams. 394 pp. $65.

This handsome volume highlights some of the finest examples of American craft and artistry. It is a thorough overview spanning the years from pre-Revolutinary War times to the present.

Chronicling the creative efforts unique to the New World, the authors cover architecture, historic interiors, furniture, glass, silver, porcelain, textiles, painting, and a variety of other decorative works, including grave monuments and weathervanes. The detailed text offers valuable information for antique collectors and students of culture and history, which complements the abundant display of color and black-and-white photographs.