H. Clifford (Harold Clifford) Smith

Born in 1876 and known formally as Harold Clifford Smith, he wrote as H. Clifford Smith and built a reputation as a clear, knowledgeable writer on the decorative arts. Records for his book Jewellery identify him as H. Clifford (Harold Clifford) Smith, 1876–1960, and later editions describe him as formerly of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Smith wrote for readers who wanted both history and close attention to objects themselves. Jewellery became one of his best-known books, and he also wrote on subjects such as Buckingham Palace, its furnishings, and historic clocks and barometers. His interests suggest a scholar deeply engaged with how beauty, craftsmanship, and daily life meet in material culture.

He died in 1960. Although he is not a household name today, his books remain useful to readers drawn to antiques, design history, and the world of museums and collecting.