Books

[New York], [Dead Language Press / Piero Heliczer], [1962]. . First edition, one of a planned edition of 200 copies; 4to (225 x 190 mm, 83 4 x 71 2 in); 20 gelatin silver contact photographs (55 x 55 mm, 21 4 x 21 4 in) mounted on yellow pages, minor occasional mirroring; wire-stitched card covers printed in black and yellow after a design by Marian Zazeela, slight crease to foot of spine, stray ink marks to inside covers with minor offsetting to first and last pages, bottom wire pulling at spine, near-fine; [20pp]. Jack Smith is a key figure in the cultural history of Downtown New York; his influence is foundational in the history of experimental film, queer cinema, and performance art, helping transform the artistic landscape of New York. This copy of The Beautiful Book includes an additional image, meaning it contains 20 gelatin silver photographs instead of the usual 19 (18 photographs by Smith and one portrait of Smith by Ken Jacobs). Except for the additional photograph, the…

An iconic work, 'The Beautiful Book' is known for its eloquent prose and historical significance.