Hess, Thomas B.

Abstract Expressionism - Barnett Newman - [Inscribed by Annalee Newman] [Association]

New York: The Museum of Modern Art / New York Graphic Society, 1971. First Edition, First Printing. Hardcover with Dust Jacket.

The definitive monograph published to accompany Barnett Newman's posthumous retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art. This copy bears a significant inscription from the artist's widow and estate executor, Annalee Newman, to the noted publisher Ben Raeburn.

Key Features:
+++ Association: Inscribed in ink on the front free endpaper: 'January 1972 / For Ben — / With love / Annalee'. (Annalee Newman, the artist's wife).

+++ Visuals: Profusely illustrated with color plates of Newman's 'Zip' paintings, 'Stations of the Cross' series, and black-and-white studio photography.
+++ Content: Written by Thomas B. Hess, a close friend of the artist and editor of ARTnews, offering an intimate critical biography of the Abstract Expressionist pioneer.
+++ Ephemera: Includes a laid-in New Yorker art review clipping ('The Art World').
+++ Dimensions: 10.75 x 11 inches / 158 pages.

Condition:
Near Fine in Acceptable Dust Jacket. The book itself is in exceptional condition; tight, square, and clean. The dust jacket is significantly flawed, with a full separation/tear along the rear spine fold (the spine panel is detached on one side). It is currently held together in a Mylar sleeve which presents well on the shelf, but the structural flaw is significant. First Edition, First Printing.

Historical Significance:
Barnett Newman (1905–1970) was a titan of Abstract Expressionism and Color Field painting. This book was published just one year after his death, serving as both a catalogue raisonné of the exhibition and a memorial.

Annalee Newman was instrumental in establishing her husband's legacy; her inscription here to Ben Raeburn (Horizon Press) connects the art world's inner circle with the publishing elite of 1970s New York.

Keywords: Barnett Newman, Abstract Expressionism, Color Field, Modern Art, MoMA, Annalee Newman, Ben Raeburn, Association Copy, New York School, Thomas Hess.

Item #21497

Price: $125.00