ACC Art Books

Traditional Crafts of Porcelain Making in Jingdezhen

A unique insight into the ancient art of Jingdezhen porcelain.

Discover the refined and artisanal techniques behind the world-renowned porcelain from Jingdezhen with the coffee table book Traditional Crafts of Porcelain Making in Jingdezhen. This beautiful and in-depth art book, compiled by the renowned Chinese ceramist Bai Ming, offers a comprehensive and systematic introduction to the traditional production methods that have made this ancient city the heart of the Chinese porcelain industry.

What can you expect?
- Over 600 authentic photos that paint a unique picture of traditional craftsmanship
- Historical images of Jingdezhen in the 90s, offering a rare glimpse into an era of change
- A detailed explanation of the techniques and materials used in the production of Jingdezhen porcelain
- An insight into the research, practice, and teaching of Bai Ming, an internationally recognized master in ceramics

This photo book is an indispensable resource for art lovers, ceramists, historians, and anyone with a passion for Chinese artisanal heritage. The carefully curated photos and texts form a visual and informative tribute to timeless craftsmanship passed down through generations.

About the author
Bai Ming is a leading contemporary Chinese ceramist and writer. He is a professor and head of the Ceramic Art Department at the Academy of Arts & Design of Tsinghua University and holds various influential positions within the art world. His work, in which he combines traditional Jingdezhen techniques with modern artistic expression, is admired worldwide.

Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Jingdezhen and discover the magic of Chinese porcelain!

The Age of Grandeur, The definitive guide to 19th-century jewellery, from the Classical and Romantic to Art Nouveau

A fascinating journey through 19th-century jewelry art.

The coffee table book The Age of Grandeur focuses specifically on 19th-century jewelry art and is the comprehensive and revised edition of 19th-century jewelry art from the book Understanding Jewellery, which is widely considered the bible of jewelry. Written by David Bennett and Daniela Mascetti, both renowned experts in antique jewelry, this masterpiece offers an in-depth look at the style periods that shaped this century.

What makes this book essential?
- More than 250 magnificent color photographs of exquisite jewelry, each with detailed captions
- A complete historical guide, from Napoleonic classics and romantic naturalistic designs to Gothic and Renaissance revivals and the iconic Art Nouveau style
- Authors of the standard work "Understanding Jewellery", recognized worldwide as one of the most influential books on jewelry
- An indispensable resource for jewelry enthusiasts, collectors, historians, and designers

An era of splendor and refinement
This photo book takes you through the fascinating transitions within the 19th-century jewelry world. How and why did certain styles emerge? What inspired designers and jewelers? From sentimental Victorian remembrance jewelry to the artisanal and revolutionary designs of the Arts and Crafts movement and Art Nouveau, this coffee table book offers a unique visual and historical journey of discovery.

About the authors:
David Bennett is the worldwide chairman of the Sotheby's International Jewellery Division and has sold some of the most expensive jewels in auction history. His expertise is undeniable, with legendary auctions such as The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor and Beau Sancy.

Daniela Mascetti is the chairman of Sotheby's Europe jewelry division and one of the most respected jewelry historians. Her research and expertise played a key role in the sale of jewelry collections from celebrities such as Elton John and Gina Lollobrigida.

For lovers of jewelry, art history, and design, "The Age of Grandeur" is an absolute must-have!

Blondie in Camera 1978

An iconic look at Blondie's breakthrough.

Relive the magical year Blondie broke through to superstardom with the coffee table book Blondie in Camera 1978. This beautifully illustrated photo book contains the band's most iconic photos, captured by top photographer Martyn Goddard. From legendary album covers to rare archival footage, this collection brings Blondie's energy and style to life in their exciting New Wave period.

In 1978, Goddard traveled to New York to photograph singer Debbie Harry, unaware that his images and Blondie's music would forever influence pop culture. Hits like Heart of Glass, Hanging on the Telephone and Picture This dominated the charts and marked an era when Blondie's unique blend of punk, pop and disco conquered the world.

This coffee table book is an indispensable collector's item for fans and music lovers, featuring rare and intimate images that show the band at the peak of their breakthrough.

About the author:
Martyn Goddard studied photography at Harrow College of Art and began his career as an assistant to rock photographer Gered Mankowitz. In the 1970s, he became a sought-after photographer in the New Wave scene, where he worked with iconic bands such as Blondie, The Jam and The Cure. His work has been exhibited worldwide and he remains active as a photographer and archivist of historic rock images.

Dietrich Through the Lens

An iconic star captured with never-before-seen photos.

Discover the timeless allure of Marlene Dietrich in the coffee table book Dietrich Through the Lens, a magnificent tribute to one of the most iconic 20th-century actresses and singers. Dietrich masterfully combined glamour and mystery, and her influence on fashion, film, and pop culture is still evident today.

This photo book is a collaboration between ACC Art Books and Iconic Images and features the work of nine renowned photographers, including Eve Arnold, Terry O’Neill, Norman Parkinson, and Douglas Kirkland. From intimate portraits and unique encounters to unforgettable set photos — each image tells a story about Dietrich’s multifaceted character: the seductive cabaret performer, the passionate patriotic woman, the mother, and the independent thinker.

Additionally, the book offers insightful background stories about the photographers who worked with her, as well as an essay by Terence Pepper OBE, former head of photography at the National Portrait Gallery.

With a mix of historical depth and visual splendor, Dietrich Through the Lens is an indispensable collector's item for lovers of Hollywood's Golden Age, photography, and timeless elegance.

Yumi Katsura, The Fairy Godmother of Japanese Fashion

Discover the fascinating story of Yumi Katsura, the visionary designer who transformed modern bridal fashion in Japan. Although she is one of the world's best-selling luxury bridal designers, her name remains a hidden gem for many. In her homeland of Japan, however, she is revered as a cultural icon and pioneer in the fashion industry.

This beautiful coffee table book takes you through Katsura's extraordinary career, from her youth in post-war Tokyo to her impressive international successes. Her creations, including a diamond-encrusted wedding dress and a unique 'washi fashion' dress in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, bear witness to her boundless innovation and craftsmanship.

Author
Written by Cori Coppola, producer of the acclaimed fashion documentary House of Cardin, this richly illustrated biography offers a profound and inspiring portrait of a woman who conquered the fashion world with passion and courage.

Coffee table book Yumi Katsura, The Fairy Godmother of Japanese Fashion is an indispensable photo book for fashion critics, haute couture enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by fashion icons.

Old Corfu – A visual ode to authentic Corfu
Photography by Maria Victoria Douka

Be enchanted by the timeless character of Corfu with the impressive coffee table book Old Corfu. In this beautifully designed photo book, photographer Maria Victoria Douka uniquely captures the hidden beauty of this beloved Greek island.

With an eye for detail, she captures the charm of faded facades, cracked paving stones, ancient olive trees, and quiet streets. Her photos show a side of Corfu that often escapes the eyes of tourists: raw, serene, and authentically beautiful.

Old Corfu is more than a collection of beautiful images. It is a visual journey through the old city, imbued with a Mediterranean atmosphere, Venetian influences, and the magic of bygone eras. An absolute must-have for travelers, photography enthusiasts, artists, and anyone who loves characterful, narrative images.

Why you'll want this book:

• Perfect gift for lovers of Greece, Corfu, or authentic travel photography
• An inspiring look at transience, tranquility, and beauty
• Luxury coffee table book with high-quality photography and artistic flair
• Ideal for inspiration for interior design, art, travel planning, or creative projects

See the island as you've never seen it before – pure, unpolished, and unforgettable.

Volker Hermes – Hidden Portraits: Old Masters Reimagined
Author: Volker Hermes

Immerse yourself in a fascinating dialogue between past and present with Hidden Portraits, the striking coffee table book by contemporary artist Volker Hermes. Known for exhibitions at the Metropolitan Museum and Christie's in New York, Hermes offers a sharp, visually powerful reinterpretation of classical portraiture.

Through digital manipulation of historical paintings, Hermes transforms elite portraits into mysterious, anonymous figures—completely hidden beneath their own luxurious symbols of status and power. What remains is an intriguing reflection on social privilege, identity, and the façade of outward appearances.

This special edition not only features Hermes’ iconic images but also accompanying texts by art historian Till-Holger Borchert and philosopher Francesca Raimondi, who place the work in a broader art-historical and societal context.

Why this book is a must-have:

• A modern, visually stimulating reinterpretation of classical portraiture
• Critical reflection on themes such as status, power, and identity
• A luxuriously published art book with commentary from leading experts
• Internationally acclaimed by The Met, Christie's, and renowned museums, among others
• A must-have for art lovers, galleries, and design stores

A unique and thought-provoking statement in book form that connects classic craftsmanship with contemporary art and critical reflection. Hidden Portraits is a visual experience that invites viewing, contemplation, and admiration.

About the author:

Volker Hermes (1972) is a German artist known for his conceptual approach to classical art forms. With a keen sense of humor and precision, he creates digitally manipulated portraits that confront the past with contemporary questions about status, identity, and outward appearances. His work has been exhibited worldwide, including at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Christie's in New York. Hermes combines art historical insight with a sharp visual style—and consistently makes the viewer reconsider what they are actually seeing.

The London Club. Architecture, Interiors, Art
Author: Andrew Jones | Photography: Laura Hodgson

An exclusive look behind the doors of London's most iconic members' clubs

London has more private clubs than any other city in the world, from historical societies for nobles and bishops to secret meeting places for spies, equestrians, and artists. In The London Club, author Andrew Jones opens the doors to 45 of these extraordinary places. With breathtaking photographs taken specially for this photo book by Laura Hodgson, this luxurious coffee table book offers a unique insight into 300 years of architecture, interior design, and art within the exclusive world of London's members' clubs.

From classic Mayfair mansions to contemporary venues full of design and character, this book is a visual ode to British club culture and its rich history. Including a foreword by renowned interior designer Nina Campbell OBE.

A timeless and stylish book for lovers of British elegance, architecture, and hidden places in London.

What to expect:

• An exclusive visual tour through 45 unique members’ clubs in London
• Impressive new photography by Laura Hodgson, full of detail and atmosphere
• Historical and contemporary architecture and interior design highlighted
• Surprising insights into the social and cultural significance of London clubs
• Beautiful large-format book, perfect for lovers of architecture, interior design, and British culture

About the author:

Andrew Jones has lived in the heart of London's club life, between Mayfair and St. James's, for almost 20 years. He writes about cities and culture for publications including the Financial Times and previously published the book The Buildings of Green Park. His work has also appeared in Blueprint, The World of Interiors, and The London Gardener. Jones is known for his keen eye for architecture, history, and the city's hidden stories.

RHS Botanical Illustration. The Gold Medal Winners
Author: Charlotte Brooks

A tribute to the world's best botanical artists, who have been awarded the prestigious RHS Gold Medal.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of botanical art in this luxurious coffee table book filled with works by more than 70 internationally acclaimed illustrators. RHS Botanical Illustration: The Gold Medal Winners brings together the very best botanical illustrations from the renowned Lindley Collections of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the leading British horticultural organization.

This fully updated and expanded edition features no fewer than 29 new works by 14 recent award winners, selected from the most recent RHS exhibitions held annually at the Saatchi Gallery in London. Only illustrations of exceptional quality are awarded an RHS Gold Medal, a globally recognized distinction within botanical art.

Each image is accompanied by a short biography of the artist, a description of their award-winning work, and insight into their creative process. In addition, an introductory essay provides a deeper understanding of the rich history of botanical art and its close connection to the RHS.

A visual masterpiece that brings together botanical beauty, history, and art. The photo book RHS Botanical Illustration is an indispensable addition for any plant lover or art connoisseur.

What to expect:

• An exclusive collection of world-class botanical illustrations
• More than 70 artists from all corners of the globe – including new winners from the past four years
• Background stories and artistic insights for each work
• Perfect for plant lovers, botanists, art collectors, and aspiring illustrators
• A beautiful reference work and a stylish gift book

About the author:

Charlotte Brooks is Curator of Art at the RHS Lindley Library in London and has been involved in the world of botanical illustration for over 15 years. She has published various articles on the collection and specializes in 19th-century Anglo-Chinese botanical art. As Secretary of the RHS Botanical Art Judging Panel, she plays an important role in the assessment of contemporary botanical artists from around the world. Her expertise and passion for botanical art make this book a valuable and authoritative reference work.

Dear Marilyn. The Unseen Letters and Photographs
Author: Sam Shaw

An intimate portrait of Marilyn Monroe, captured by her confidant Sam Shaw. Now revealed in words and images.

Dear Marilyn offers a unique glimpse behind the scenes of the life of Marilyn Monroe – the icon who forever changed Hollywood. This extraordinary coffee table book features for the first time personal letters, diary fragments, and handwritten notes by photographer and filmmaker Sam Shaw, who was part of Monroe's inner circle. Through his voice and lens, we get to know Marilyn as few others saw her: pure, vulnerable, ambitious, and full of charisma.

The publication contains a magnificent collection of digitally restored photographs from the original archives from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. Think of never-before-published images from the filming of The Seven Year Itch, including the famous 'skirt-blowing' moment, as well as intimate scenes of Marilyn at home in New York, walking through the city, or in love on the beach of Amagansett.

This photo book is a must-have for film lovers, Marilyn collectors, and photography enthusiasts. Dear Marilyn captures not only a woman in images but also an era full of glamour, struggle, and beauty.

An enchanting tribute to the woman behind the legend, seen through the eyes of a friend.

What to expect:

• Unpublished correspondence and diary fragments by Sam Shaw
• Iconic and unpublished photos of Marilyn Monroe, spontaneous, private, and on set
• Exclusive behind-the-scenes material from The Seven Year Itch
• Visual tribute to Monroe on the occasion of her 100th birthday
• Perfect book for fans of Marilyn, vintage Hollywood, and classic photography

About the author:

Sam Shaw (1912–1999) was an influential photographer, journalist, and filmmaker from New York. His career began in the 1940s at Collier’s Magazine, where he captured the daily lives of ordinary Americans. Later, he traveled across the country to create photo essays on jazz musicians, farmers, and the burlesque scene, among others.

Shaw became famous as a stills photographer in the film industry, working with legends such as Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, Audrey Hepburn, and Alfred Hitchcock. His images appeared worldwide in renowned magazines such as Life, Paris Match, Harper’s Bazaar, and Look.

But it was his years of collaboration and deep friendship with Marilyn Monroe that gave his work iconic status. With Dear Marilyn, Shaw finally shares his personal memories, bringing the star back to life in words and images.

Restomods. The New World Order of Handcrafted Cars
Author: Bill Schwartz

The ultimate tribute to restomods: where classic beauty and modern technology merge in exclusive cars.

In Restomods: The New World Order of Handcrafted Cars, you'll delve into the world of high-end, fully custom-built vehicles that combine classic car designs with the latest technological innovations. This luxurious coffee table edition showcases how craftsmanship, imagination, and technical innovation come together in the world's most coveted restomods.

With contributions from over 50 leading names in the scene, including Singer, Eagle, Tuthill, and Alfaholics, this photo book offers an exclusive look at their impressive creations. Each chapter features detailed specifications, quotes from the creators, and razor-sharp photography that perfectly captures the elegance and performance of these vehicles.

What you can expect:

• A visually stunning collection of the world's most iconic restomod projects
• Insights from renowned car builders such as Singer, Eagle, Alfaholics, and Tuthill
• Technical specifications and exclusive photos of each car
• A must-have for car enthusiasts, collectors, and design fans
• First volume in the new series Cars Reimagined

Restomods are not just restored cars. They are artworks on wheels, where nostalgic design seamlessly merges with modern performance, safety, and driving comfort. From Porsche and Jaguar to Alfa Romeo: these cars bring the best of both worlds together and set a new standard in car restoration.

Whether you are a lover of classic sports cars, modern engineering, or pure aesthetics: Restomods is the book you need to have in your collection.

An unparalleled coffee table book for the modern car enthusiast, stylish, informative, and visually stunning.

About the author:

Bill Schwartz has been active in the world of film and media production for over 25 years. He has produced and distributed dozens of documentaries and feature films worldwide. His work is known from Terror On The Titanic, Howard Hughes: The Real Aviator, and Valkyrie: The Plot To Kill Hitler, among others. However, it is his passion for technology and innovation that inspired his most personal project: Journey to Mars – a documentary about NASA’s Viking Pathfinder.

With his fascination for groundbreaking engineering, he now focuses on the world of restomods, where precision, vision, and passion come together in moving works of art.

Hannah Martin: Iconoclast. A Jewellery Rebellion
Author: Tina Isaac-Goizé
Foreword: Vivienne Becker

A visually and substantively powerful tribute to the rebellious vision of one of the most influential jewelry designers of our time.

Hannah Martin: Iconoclast – A Jewellery Rebellion offers an intriguing look at the work and creative journey of London-based jewelry designer Hannah Martin, a woman who ruthlessly breaks through the traditional boundaries of haute joaillerie. Richly illustrated with powerful color and black-and-white photography, this coffee table book tells the story of a personal and artistic revolution within the world of luxury.

Once trained at Central Saint Martins and shaped in the ateliers of Cartier, Martin chose her own path early on. In 2005, she founded her own label: Hannah Martin London – with the aim of designing jewelry that challenges traditional gender norms and combines masculine strength with feminine sophistication.

Today, her name stands for authenticity, unmistakable style, and uncompromising creativity. Her jewelry is loved by both men and women, worn by people who dare to combine aesthetics and attitude.

What to expect:

• With a foreword by renowned jewelry historian Vivienne Becker
• Richly illustrated with dramatic color and black-and-white photography
• Structured around themes that reflect Hannah's personal and creative development
• An in-depth look at her work, sources of inspiration, and influence within the luxury industry
• A must-have coffee table book for lovers of design, fashion, jewelry, and individuality

Hannah Martin: Iconoclast is not a traditional photo book; it is a personal manifesto by a designer who refuses to conform. An ode to craftsmanship, vision, and the courage to go against the grain in an industry still full of conventions.

About the author:

Tina Isaac-Goizé is an experienced fashion and culture journalist based in Paris. She writes for leading media such as The New York Times, Vogue, Business of Fashion, and WSJ. Magazine. Her work focuses on luxury, fashion, and design, where she is known for her keen eye on creative innovators within the industry. With this book, she offers an intimate and admiring look at the work of Hannah Martin, a rare example of rebellious elegance in the world of high-end jewelry.

Chintz. Indian Cotton Textiles from the Karun Thakar Collection
Authors: Karun Thakar, edited by Avalon Fotheringham

A visual masterpiece on the rich history and global influence of Indian cotton prints.

The stunning coffee table book Chintz offers an in-depth look at the world of hand-printed and painted cotton fabrics from India. Featuring the unrivaled Karun Thakar collection, meticulously built over the past thirty years, this photobook delves into the cultural and artistic significance of chintz, a textile form that played a crucial role in global trade, fashion, and interior design for centuries.

This impressive collection encompasses over two hundred rare pieces, dating from the 14th to the 20th century, some of which are exclusively found in museum collections. Many of these objects have been exhibited in leading museums in recent years, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Why this book is a unique addition to your collection:

• Contains rare, world-class Indian chintz textiles
• History and influence of chintz on global trade and design
• With contributions from leading international experts and museum curators
• Richly illustrated with exceptionally high-quality photographs
• Indispensable for lovers of textile art, fashion history, and postcolonial studies

Chintz explores the historical context of these enchanting fabrics and their global dissemination, from Sri Lanka and Japan to Europe. The book not only reveals the artistic mastery of Indian designers but also the cultural narratives woven into these fabrics. A valuable publication for textile enthusiasts, art historians, and anyone interested in global cultural exchange throughout the centuries.

About the authors

Karun Thakar is one of the world's most respected textile collectors and researchers. His impressive collection advocates for the preservation of intangible heritage and highlighting underrepresented cultures. Through textiles, Thakar aims to shed new light on postcolonial histories and forgotten crafts. He collaborates with international museums and established the Karun Thakar Fund at the V&A Museum in 2021 to support young talent worldwide in researching Asian and African textiles.

Avalon Fotheringham, the editor of this book, is curator of South Asian textiles and dress at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Together with other renowned experts such as John Guy (Metropolitan Museum of Art), Sylvia Houghteling (Bryn Mawr College), and Ebeltje Hartkamp-Jonxis (Rijksmuseum), she ensures a scientifically and culturally substantiated publication that is both informative and visually stunning.

Prince: The Two-Volume Special Edition, Collected Photographs

Prince. Visionary. Multi-instrumentalist. Unrivalled performer. One of the most influential pop icons of the 20th century. In Prince: The Two-Volume Special Edition, Collected Photographs, the artist comes to life in a way we've never seen before.

This impressive two-volume edition compiles over 550 photos, captured by Steve Parke – Prince's long-time art director and award-winning photographer. Parke was given exceptionally confidential access to Prince's world, and this is reflected in every image. Many of the photos are published here for the first time and show Prince not only as a superstar but also as a human being.

From intimate moments in Paisley Park to relaxed scenes in his sun-drenched home in Marbella and focused hours in the studio: this is Prince behind the scenes. We see him posing for powerful portraits, but also in quiet, personal moments with his first wife Mayte Garcia and their dog Mia. Images full of tenderness, creativity, and control – exactly as Prince himself was.

The photos were personally selected by Steve Parke from his own archive and together form a visual monument to an exceptional artist. Part two of this special edition is exclusively available within this box set, making this release extra special for collectors and fans.

Prince: The Two-Volume Special Edition, Collected Photographs is more than a photo book. It is a rare and honest portrait of an icon who wrote his own rules – an absolute must-have for Prince fans, music lovers, and anyone with an eye for photography and pop culture.

What to expect:

• Special Edition with an exclusive second book, bundled in a special cover.
• Exclusive images by Steve Parke
• Over 550 iconic and intimate photos

Also available from us: Prince: Icon

About the author

Steve Parke is an award-winning illustrator, designer, and photographer. For thirteen years, he worked closely with Prince as in-house art director at Paisley Park. He designed album covers, painted guitars, and was involved in countless creative projects, big and small.

In addition, Parke worked with artists such as David Bowie, Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan, AC/DC, Marcus Miller, and the Grateful Dead. He also maintains long-term collaborations with Sheila E., The Family/deluxe, Victor Wooten, and Stanley Clarke, both as a photographer and designer of album covers, promotional material, and merchandise.

Collecting Jewellery
Author: John Benjamin

With Collecting Jewellery, John Benjamin offers an indispensable guide for anyone who wants to learn how to identify, appreciate, and collect jewellery. This fully updated edition takes you through the history of jewellery: from antique jewels to contemporary designs. Benjamin combines his years of experience as an appraiser, lecturer, and jewellery historian in a clear and accessible book.

The guide not only covers classic periods but also delves into more modern movements. There are new chapters on the 'Modern Style' of the 1940s and 50s and the 'Designer Jewel' of the 1960s and 70s, extending far beyond the turn of the millennium. From natural and cultivated diamonds to unique one-off pieces and popular fashion jewellery: this book teaches you how to observe, compare, and understand. Ideal for collectors, students, and enthusiasts who want to build their own collection with knowledge and confidence.

What to expect:

• A fully updated classic: from antique to contemporary jewellery
• Clear basic knowledge for collectors, students, and enthusiasts
• Insight and expertise to assemble your own stylish and affordable collection

About the author

John Benjamin is an internationally recognised expert in the field of jewellery. After his role as International Director of Jewellery at Phillips Fine Art Auctioneers, he started his own independent appraisal and advisory practice in 1999. He is a Freeman of both The Goldsmiths’ Company and the City of London and is closely involved with The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars.

In addition to Collecting Jewellery, he also wrote Starting to Collect Antique Jewellery and collaborated with Paul Atterbury on The Jewellery and Silver of H.G. Murphy. Since 1991, John Benjamin has been a familiar face as an expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow. As a sought-after speaker for organisations such as The Arts Society and the National Federation of Women’s Institutes, he consistently conveys his in-depth knowledge in an accessible and inspiring way.

Jazz: Best of the Apollo, Village Vanguard and Riverside Sessions
Authors: Richard Scheinin and Steve Scharpiro

In Jazz: Best of the Apollo, Village Vanguard, and Riverside Sessions, a rarely seen chapter of jazz history comes to life. The legendary photographer Steve Schapiro – globally renowned for his compelling social documentaries from the 1960s – turned his lens to the New York jazz scene early on. Even before his big breakthrough, he captured musicians in clubs, studios, and backstage moments, precisely at the intersection where music, zeitgeist, and personal expression converge.

In the early 60s, jazz experienced a golden age in New York. Schapiro, raised in the Bronx and working as a freelance photographer, gained access to the intimate world of Riverside Records. There, he not only photographed performances but also the moments in between: Sonny Rollins lifting weights backstage, Bobby Timmons engrossed in a sudden musical insight, musicians completely absorbed in their craft. His images exude proximity, respect, and a keen eye for the decisive moment.

The photographs in this coffee table book – largely never before published – feature icons such as Cannonball Adderley, Melba Liston, Bill Evans, Wayne Shorter, Freddie Hubbard, Sonny Rollins, and Count Basie. Together, they form a visual historical document of exceptional value, presenting jazz not as a myth, but as lived reality.

What you can expect:

• An impressive photo archive by Steve Schapiro featuring jazz legends from the early 60s
• Narrative context and interpretation by renowned jazz journalist Richard Scheinin
• Iconic names like Miles Davis, Dorothy Ashby, Bill Evans, and many others, captured in their purest moments
• A foreword by Sonny Rollins, an afterword by Kurt Elling.

About the Author(s)

Richard Scheinin is a leading American jazz journalist. His work has appeared in The New York Times, GQ, and other national publications. He is a staff writer at SFJAZZ and was the classical and jazz critic for the San Jose Mercury News for over a decade. Scheinin has interviewed and profiled numerous public figures, from Sonny Rollins to the Dalai Lama, and is the author of Field of Screams: The Dark Underside of America’s National Pastime (W.W. Norton).

Steve Schapiro (1934–2022) was one of the most influential American photographers of his generation. He achieved global fame for his photojournalistic coverage of the American Civil Rights Movement, including the March on Washington and the Selma to Montgomery marches. He also created iconic portraits and film stills for The Godfather and Taxi Driver, among others. His work is held in collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the J. Paul Getty Museum. In 2017, Schapiro received the Lucie Award for his exceptional contribution to photojournalism.