How to Shop Brodovitch Books Without Overpaying
Table of contents
Quick checklist
- Confirm the exact title + ISBN/slug—avoid misfiled listings.
- Check format (HC/SC) and jacket presence; request photos of spine/corners.
- Scan for library marks, bookplates, or remainder dots.
- Match edition intent (first vs. reprint) to budget; use targeted slugs.
- Compare multiple marketplaces before committing.
Edition signals that move price
- Ballet (1945): first-edition intent vs. reprint, jacket presence, plate completeness.
- Purcell monograph (2002): ISBN 9780714842044, HC vs SC, jacket condition.
- Exhibition catalogs (1937/1951/1972/1982/1994): publisher imprint, inserts/plates intact, binding type (staple vs perfect vs sewn).
- Recent editions (2011 Denby/Purcell): confirm contributor names to avoid mismatched listings.
Condition traps
- Spine and gutter: heavy art paper stresses bindings; ask for spine shots.
- Plates/inserts: missing plates or fold-outs drop value sharply.
- Jackets: tears, chips, laminate lift; some catalogs never had jackets—verify.
- Foxing/toning: visible on edges and endpapers; close-ups matter.
- Institutional marks: stamps/pockets common on exhibition catalogs; OK for readers, less so for collectors.
Search terms and filters
Use targeted searches to reduce junk listings and match intent.
Price discipline
- Anchor on comps: compare at least three marketplaces before accepting an outlier.
- Adjust for shipping: heavy art books can add significant cost.
- Condition delta: jacketed vs. no-jacket can be a 2–5x swing on Ballet; note real photos.
- Patience pays: set alerts; sporadic listings can be cheaper than “Buy It Now.”
FAQ
How do I avoid misfiled listings?
Use ISBNs where possible (e.g., 9780714842044 for Purcell 2002) and include author/publisher in searches. Cross-check contributor names for 2011 Denby/Purcell.
Should I buy ex-library?
Often cheaper. Decide if stamps/pockets are acceptable; for investment-grade, wait for private copies.
Are reprints OK?
For reading/reference, yes. For collecting, first editions and complete plates matter. Price accordingly.
What about signatures?
Be skeptical without provenance or clear photos. Premium only applies with credible authentication signals.