Rockwell Kent by Merle Armitage

Rockwell Kent by Merle Armitage (Alfred A. Knopf, New York, 1932) includes an introductory note and a lengthy biography of Kent by Armitage, and a brief essay by Kent entitled, Applejack. There is a portrait of the artist opposite the title page; two chapter head illustrations as well as ten full page plates of Kent’s artwork; and, a bibliography of Kent’s writings and his illustrated works.

Kent and Armitage were friends, for several years (~1926-1963), with the artist having created a bookplate for Armitage, illustrated on page 1, as a chapter head; and Armitage, as a collector, possessed at one time, all of the artwork that is illustrated in this book.

Produced in an edition of 550 copies, this is number 77. The first signature in the book is loose, at the bottom of the pages. The dust wrapper is severed at the spine and missing segments, especially on the back panel – it is protected in an acetate wrapping.

$120.