(#167939) The portfolios of Ansel Adams introduction by John Szarkowski. ANSEL EASTON ADAMS.

The portfolios of Ansel Adams introduction by John Szarkowski. Boston: New York Graphic Society, [1977]. 26.5x23 cm, pp. [i-iii] iv-xii [1] 2-124, 90 illustrations, original gray cloth, front and spine panels stamped in black, black endpapers. First combined edition. From 1948 to 1976 Adams produced seven portfolios, each a limited edition of from ten to sixteen original photographic prints. Each of the portfolios included at least one photograph of the Sierra Nevada, mostly images of Yosemite Valley. The valley was the only subject of PORTFOLIO THREE (1960) which included some of Adams' best known and technically perfect photographs of Yosemite. "In these sixteen photographs," Adams noted, "are many deep echoes of experience from more than forty years in Yosemite Valley. Each represents, for me, a moment of wonder ... This collection is, in a way, a personal autobiography in photographic images, the selection of which is based on emotional impulses and personal experience rather than on intellectual or historical judgment." The seven portfolios were collected and published by the Graphic Society in 1977 as THE PORTFOLIOS OF ANSEL ADAMS. Adams' "preface" dated March 1977 provides print runs and production and distribution details for each portfolio. He states that "In retrospect I may wistfully question some omission (or inclusion) of an image, but the selections were logically and aesthetically agreeable at the time. With these 90 photographs I must stand ...." Top edge of text block foxed, else a fine copy in fine dust jacket with touch of tanning to spine panel. Dust jacket price is $19.50. (#167939).

Printing identification statement for this book:
"First printing" on copyright page.