Modern Art and the Death of a Culture (1970) by H. R. Rookmaaker

Title:
Rare "Modern Art and the Death of a Culture" (1970) by H. R. Rookmaaker – From the Home of Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn

Description:
This is a 1970 copy of Modern Art and the Death of a Culture by H. R. Rookmaaker, a foundational critique of modern art's divergence from traditional Christian aesthetics and values. Rookmaaker, an art historian and Christian philosopher, explores how modern art movements reflect and contribute to the spiritual and cultural breakdown of Western society. He delves into the role of visual arts in shaping and expressing the moral and spiritual state of the age, making this work a compelling read for both art enthusiasts and cultural critics. This book is revered for its scholarly approach to analyzing the intersection between art and faith, adding a rich layer of context to the mid-20th-century cultural and intellectual landscape.

Provenance:
This copy carries the distinctive embossed stamp that reads:
"From the home of Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn,"
featuring the Weather Underground’s emblem and the words "All Power to the People." Its connection to these historic figures of the radical left not only enhances the book’s historical value but also provides a unique glimpse into the diverse literary tastes and ideological leanings of these revolutionary thinkers.

About the Book:
Modern Art and the Death of a Culture has been praised for its incisive critique of the philosophical underpinnings of modernism and its impact on art and society. Rookmaaker argues that the visual arts serve as both a mirror and a molder of society’s spiritual health, asserting that the loss of faith and meaning in Western culture is reflected in the chaotic and fragmented nature of much of its art. The book remains influential among those exploring the interplay between faith, art, and society, making it a cornerstone of Christian cultural criticism.

Condition:
This book is in fair condition with visible shelf wear on the cover, including some corner creasing and small tears along the edges. The spine shows slight cracking, and the pages have mild yellowing due to age, but remain intact and easily readable. A vintage price sticker is still attached to the front cover, adding to its authentic charm.

Provenance & Significance:
The provenance ties this edition to Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn, prominent members of the Weather Underground and iconic figures in the countercultural movements of the 1960s and 70s. As revolutionaries and academics, Ayers and Dohrn curated a collection of literature that reflected their interests in radical politics, social critique, and cultural theory. This unique ownership history adds a valuable layer of significance for collectors interested in revolutionary thought, radical history, and the cultural dynamics of art and society.

Why We’re Selling:
The proceeds from this sale will go toward funding the publication of:
"Bomb Ass Recipes from the Kitchen of Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn,"
a new book by artist Shane Bugbee. The book will feature family recipes, stories, and reflections, offering an intimate look at the domestic side of these two prominent political figures, highlighting the intersection of food, memory, and activism.

Estimated Value:
Considering its condition and the provenance linking it to Ayers and Dohrn, this book is estimated at $100-$200. The value is enhanced by its significance as a cultural artifact that offers a rare convergence of art criticism, spiritual inquiry, and political history.

Shipping & Handling:
The book will be carefully packaged and shipped with insurance and tracking to ensure its safe delivery.

This is a unique opportunity to own a piece of both art history and radical countercultural heritage, making it a valuable addition to any collection focused on 20th-century thought, aesthetics, or political theory.