Kitsch-Lexicon from A to Z - Gert Richter - Illustrated Vintage Art Book, 1972

A remarkable German art book from 1972 entirely devoted to kitsch, from porcelain angels and romantic paintings to monumental architecture and political propaganda.

In Kitsch-Lexicon von A bis Z, Gert Richter explores how kitsch is created, why people are drawn to it, and where the line between art and kitsch actually lies. Combining cultural-historical reflections, humor, and numerous illustrations, he discusses diverse examples from art, literature, music, religion, and everyday life.

The book contains both black-and-white illustrations and color images of paintings, sculptures, decorative objects, and historical photographs. The role of kitsch in nationalist and political imagery is also discussed in detail.

The edition beautifully complements the subject. The deep red faux leather binding is richly adorned with gold-colored ornaments, with three little angels surrounding the title. A striking addition to any bookshelf and an interesting reference work for lovers of vintage, art history, and unusual objects.

Inside the front cover is an illustrated ex libris from a previous owner.

Specifications and details

• Title: Erbauliches, belehrendes, wie auch vergnügliches Kitsch-Lexicon von A bis Z
• Author: Gert Richter
• Publisher: Bertelsmann Lexicon-Verlag
• Year: 1972
• Origin: Germany
• Language: German
• Edition: Hardcover with red faux leather binding
• Decoration: Gold-colored lettering and ornaments
• Illustrations: Numerous black-and-white images and color illustrations
• Size: 240 pages
• Dimensions: 24.5 × 16 × 2.3 cm
• Special features: Illustrated ex libris from a previous owner
• Condition: Good vintage condition with minor signs of wear. In some places, separation between several signatures is visible, weakening the binding at those points. No loose pages detected.