My Mask: For What Little I Know Of The Man Behind It
An Autobiography by Norman Lindsay
Published by Angus & Robertson: Sydney 1970 1st Edition
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My Mask is Norman Lindsay's personal autobiography, first published by Angus & Robertson in Sydney in 1970, offered here in its first edition with the original unclipped dustjacket. Lindsay presents a candid and lively portrait of his life, beginning with his early years in Creswick, Victoria, and tracing the development of his extraordinary creativity across literature, art, and sculpture. Infused with his characteristic wit and irreverence, the book reveals the formative experiences that shaped him, from his school days and early romantic entanglements to his immersion in artistic and literary circles in Melbourne, where he interacted with the giants of Australian culture.
This first edition is a comprehensive record of Lindsay's multifaceted life, written in 1957, twelve years before his death in 1969 at age ninety. It captures not only his personal exploits but also the broader cultural milieu of early 20th-century Australia. Copiously illustrated with photographs, the book showcases Lindsay's art, his sculptural endeavors, garden statuary at Springwood, and theatrical escapades, giving readers a vivid sense of his personality and the playful energy that permeated his work. The autobiography balances humor, candid reflection, and anecdotal storytelling, revealing the man behind the public persona while maintaining his engaging, often mischievous, voice.
For collectors, this first edition holds particular appeal due to its original dustjacket and the historical significance of Lindsay's commentary on both his personal and professional life. The book is a rare insight into one of Australia's most notable and controversial artists, making it highly desirable for admirers of Australian art, collectors of early 20th-century literary and artistic memoirs, and those interested in cultural history from this period. Its original dustjacket condition, combined with the illustrative content and first-hand narrative, ensures its status as a distinguished addition to any private collection or Australian literary archive."
General wear, chipping etc with some reverse side tape repairs to unclipped dustjacket. Small contemporary inscription as shown. Pages very clean and well presented. Binding is good with no loose pages. A nice 1st edition copy in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
