Books

[New York]: [Dead Language Press], 1962. First edition. First edition. Signed by Jack Smith on verso of front wrap, inscribed to poet Kirby Congdon "To Kirby with choked up strangled emotions...... Jack." [20] pp. Illustrated with 19 gelatin silver contact prints, comprising 18 photographs by Smith mounted on yellow pages, and one portrait of Smith by Ken Jacobs, mounted on the inner rear wrapper. Bound in publisher's saddle-stitched card stock illustrated wrappers with a design in black and green. Very Good with toning and light foxing to wrappers, tiny hole to front wrap around one staple, some foxing and offsetting to pages, typical discoloration to photos. One of likely 60 or so copies ever produced; even more scarce signed. A very important 20th century artist's book. Present are 18 photographs by Smith and the portrait of Smith by Jacobs, as is the case with the majority of copies. The Beautiful Book was produced in an intended edition of 200, though it is generally claimed…

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

First edition copies have the original dust jacket with an iconic cover design.