BALANCHINE THROUGH HAGGIN’S EYES

Haggin, B. H. (1900–1987) ; Swope, Martha – Photographer

Discovering Balanchine [Inscribed to Publisher Ben Raeburn with Ephemera]

New York: Horizon Press, 1981. First Edition, First Printing. Hardcover with Dust Jacket.
THE DEFINITIVE BALANCHINE RECORD
A fundamental association copy of this intimate study of George Balanchine’s choreography, inscribed by the author to his publisher and Horizon Press founder, Ben Raeburn. 

This volume captures the late-career collaboration between Haggin and the world’s preeminent dance photographer, Martha Swope, published just two years before Balanchine’s death.

KEY FEATURES 
+++ Visuals: Extensively illustrated with 139 action photographs by Martha Swope, capturing the New York City Ballet in rehearsal and performance. 
+++ Binding: Cloth-backed boards with original pictorial dust jacket featuring a price of $18.95. 
+++ Content: Haggin’s sharp-eyed analysis of the Balanchine repertoire, from 'Apollo' to 'Union Jack'. 
+++ Associated Names: B. H. Haggin (Author); Martha Swope (Photographer); George Balanchine (Subject); Ben Raeburn (Dedicatee). 
+++ Provenance: From the personal library and estate of Ben Raeburn (Horizon Press). 
+++ Ephemera: Unique Laid-in Materials including original notes and correspondence related to the book's production or distribution (referencing specific dancers/rehearsals). 

CONDITION Near Fine -- The book is in superior state with no flaws or blemishes, showing only minimal shelf handling. The dust jacket is likewise Near Fine, retaining the original price and showing only the slightest, even age-toning to the panels.
+++ Imprint: First edition, published by Horizon Press. 
+++ Specs: 10 inches tall / 10-18 [2], [139 unnumbered photographs], [1], 20-47 [1] pages.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE - 
B. H. Haggin was one of the earliest and most consistent champions of George Balanchine’s work. This book serves as a summation of decades of observation, elevated by Martha Swope’s photography—widely considered the definitive visual record of the New York City Ballet’s 'Golden Age.'

As an association copy, it documents the enduring partnership between Haggin and Ben Raeburn. Horizon Press was the primary vehicle for Haggin’s uncompromising voice, and this inscribed volume represents their final major collaborative effort on a subject they both championed.

SUBJECTS: George Balanchine, B. H. Haggin, Martha Swope, New York City Ballet, Horizon Press, Ben Raeburn, Dance Photography, Association Copy, Dance History, Photography, First Edition, Ephemera.

Item #21535
ISBN: 0818004045

Price: $325.00