Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is the official softcover exhibition catalog for the 'Art Since 1950' show held during the 1962 Seattle World's Fair. It represents a pivotal moment when the Pacific Northwest asserted itself as a global cultural hub, showcasing the cutting edge of American and International contemporary art.
Story
In 1962, Seattle invited the world to see the future. While the Space Needle rose above, this book guided visitors through a radical new world of abstract expressionism and pop art that was still shocking to the general public.
Maker / Origin
The exhibition was organized by Willem Sandberg, the influential director of the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, and Sam Hunter of the Rose Art Museum. Their collaboration brought a sophisticated European eye to the American frontier, bridging the gap between New York, Paris, and the West Coast.
Condition & Value
The cover shows visible shelf wear, color loss along the spine, and some creasing at the corners. These signs of use are typical for a 60-year-old souvenir but do keep it out of the 'mint' investment grade. The wear reduces the value by approximately 40% compared to a museum-quality copy.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.