Baltimore: Bodine, 1968. Illustrated in black and white. 185 pages. 4to, decoratively gilt brown cloth, d.w. (spine sunned, spotted, torn). Baltimore: Bodine, (1968). Near fine in a very good(-) dust wrapper. More
As an Interior Decorator I am on the constant lookout for source material for my clients. I recently completed a Studio pied a terre in the Georgian period for Mr. David Brown at Lincoln Center. That is, we were almost finished with only the artwork to be designed and purchased. I have a passion for antique architectural prints and I can't believe that I didn't know about Argosy Books. After all Designers don't really like to share their finds with others. I was in a cab, looking out the window as we passed by Argosy Books and noticed a fine selection of framed prints hanging in the window. I had found my oasis! I now head first to Argosy for all my print work and framing. What a treasure and a real lifesaver for design business! Thanks eternal.
I thought you'd find this interesting: I learned of Argosy by reading a bit of "bad" publicity in the book "Used and Rare" by Lawrence and Nancy Goldstone; no doubt you're familiar with it. (It was unfortunate that the authors had to grind their ax in print in what was an otherwise enjoyable book.) But I had never heard of Argosy before and my curiosity was piqued, so negative comments notwithstanding, I decided to pay a brief visit to the store. I reserved a book (long sought-after) ahead of time because I knew I'd be on an extremely tight schedule with several stops to make in just a few hours' time. Calling to reserve the book was a pleasant, very efficient experience, with a prompt return call to confirm availability. When I stopped in to purchase the book, the greeting (by one of the sisters, I'm not sure which) was extremely pleasant, the service so prompt and also she informed me of a signed letter by the subject I was interested in (unfortunately, I was unable to purchase the letter that day). I found the photo of Lawrence Olivier and Vivien Leigh as Caesar (or Antony?) and Cleopatra which hangs over the register very interesting-- had seen it before in a book. My only disappointment was that I was unable to actually spend time in the store-- it looked so inviting! But I will make it a point to spend time there on my next visit. So you see, even bad publicity can be very beneficial! Thank you for an enjoyable, if brief, experience!