Book excerpt: 1. The history of marquetry. Marquetry through time and technique -- Joiner, carpenter, Jack of all trades -- From high style beginnings to an American folk expression. 2. The marqueters. Known only by their work and initials -- Male quilting -- Identified makers of American folk marquetry. 3. An album of masterpieces. Boxes in every room -- All things great and small -- Clocks -- Fraternally yours -- Parlor pastimes -- Frames and mirrors -- The unexpected -- In closing.