The Kovels Donated Massive Research Library to Cleveland Museum of Art

CLEVELAND — A treasure trove of more than 15,000 volumes and 50 linear feet of research resources and correspondence from the collection of Terry Kovel and her late husband, Ralph, has been donated to the Cleveland Museum of Art. The Kovels’ remarkable antiques and collectibles research library, amassed over more than six decades, will be housed in the Ingalls Library and Museum Archives and be available to the public.

“The Kovel name is synonymous with expertise in the field of antiques and collectibles,” said Leslie Cade, director of the Ingalls Library and Museum Archives. “The significance of this gift is immeasurable and provides the Ingalls Library and Museum the opportunity to connect to the large community of collectors who, for more than 60 years, have relied on the Kovel expertise through publications, television shows, newspaper columns and other media.”

Ralph and Terry Kovel with just a hint of their massive research library.

Ralph and Terry Kovel published their first book in 1953, Kovels’ Dictionary of Marks – Pottery and Porcelain. Together, they served as pioneers in the fledgling antiques and collectibles field in the truest sense. Ralph Kovel passed away in 2008, and in March of 2023, Terry retired. After 70 years of serving as the voice of the hobby, Kovels Inc.’s assets were acquired by Active Interest Media (AIM), which carries on the traditions established by this dynamic couple with, among other offerings, Kovels Antique Trader magazine.

“I’m thrilled that our carefully curated materials have found a new home at the CMA and are available for future generations of collectors, preserving the legacy and craftsmanship of these remarkable treasures,” Terry Kovel said. “Our publications were born from a deep passion to share our love for antiques and collectibles with our readers. I’m confident that the CMA will continue this legacy with the same care and devotion.”

Ralph and Terry Kovels’ first book, Dictionary of Marks, was published in 1953.

Significant not only for its extent of books and publications, the collection also includes rare material, including trade sales catalogs from Roycroft, Stickley and others; samples, including wallpaper and fabrics; and items related to antiques and collectibles, including metalwork, furniture, musical instruments, costumes, jewelry, coins, and other items. The archival material includes correspondence and research files.

The collection will be open to the public on Oct. 27, the day of Terry Kovel’s 96th birthday.

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