First edition (1945) of Place, Taste and Tradition: A Study of Australian Art since 1788 by Bernard Smith, one of the most influential texts in Australian art historiography. Published in Sydney by Ure Smith Pty. Limited and printed and bound in Australia during WWII, this work laid the foundations for the serious academic study of Australian art and national identity.

This example retains its original illustrated dust jacket, showing notable wear and losses, while the book itself is in very good condition internally with clean, tight pages and strong binding. Illustrated throughout with black-and-white and colour plates, including works by Tom Roberts, Louis Buvelot, Hans Heysen, William Dobell, Russell Drysdale and others.

An important reference work for collectors of Australian art, cultural history, mid-20th-century publishing, and scholars of Bernard Smith.

Condition summary:

– Original hardback with dust jacket (tatty, worn, chipped)

– Book interior clean and sound

– Published 1945, first edition

– Printed and bound in Australia