Norman Rockwell: Illustrator.

First edition of this detailed look at Norman Rockwell's artistic process and career through 1946. Quarto, original cloth, frontispiece, illustrated throughout, preface by Dorothy Canfield Fisher. Association copy, lengthily inscribed by Norman Rockwell on the front free endpaper to celebrated portrait photographer Yousuf Karsh, "I have great admiration and respect for Mr. Yousuf Karsh and for his wonderful work. After working with him I realize how his devotion, energy, human understanding and talent make him the leading portrait photographer of this age. Sincerely Norman Rockwell." The recipient, Yousuf Karsh, is recognized as one of the leading photographers of the twentieth century. Arriving in Canada in 1924 as an Armenian refugee, Karsh eventually settled in Ottawa. Over six decades, he mastered the art of portraiture and created a unique chronicle of his time through images of celebrated legends. Some of his most notable subjects include Winston Churchill, Audrey Hepburn, Martin Luther King, Jr., John F. Kennedy, and Ernest Hemingway, among others. A celebrity in his own right, he was an elegant and charming public figure, captivating audiences with compelling stories told in images and words. Karsh sought to capture, as he put it, the "elusive moment of truth," revealing the essential nature of his subjects as reflected in their eyes, hands, and attitudes. From the collection of Yousuf Karsh with his estate label to the front pastedown. Held by the Estate of Yousuf & Estrellita Karsh; after Yousuf’s death in 2002 passing to Estrellita Karsh; after Estrellita’s death in March 2025 passing to Katherine Getchell. Accompanied by a laid in greeting card addressed to Karsh from "Fran", dated December 23, 1946. Written to mark his 38th birthday, it reads in full: "Dear Yousef: May the legend of the 'Praying Hands' bring you happiness on this day and always is my birthday wish to you." Near fine in a near fine dust jacket with light rubbing. An exceptional association.