Lot #184: Bettemann Portable Archive – Vintage Illustrated Reference Book

An unusual vintage oversized hardcover reference book featuring thousands of historical black-and-white photographs, woodcuts, engravings, and drawings, organized alphabetically by subject. Key Details - Content: An extraordinary collection of historical imagery covering a fascinating range of subjects, from absurd inventions, art, astronomy, and automobiles to unicorns, umbrellas, and much more! - Publication History: Originally published around 1966 by Picture House Press in New York, with later editions and reprints, including a 1993 edition. - Purpose: Created as a physical reference tool for artists, designers, writers, and editors searching for historical imagery, cultural icons, and visual inspiration. - Presentation: Oversized hardcover bound in beige cloth with a colourful illustrated cover panel. Inside, discover an eclectic visual archive offering a glimpse into history, art, design, technology, and everyday life. Condition: Vintage preowned condition with visible spotting, discolouration, and age-related wear to the cloth cover. Interior pages appear generally clean in the photographs. Please refer to photos for details. A fascinating collectible for lovers of vintage books, historical photography, graphic design, art, and unusual illustrated reference works. Pickup category timeslot {A}