This book contains detailed answers to the questions of how and why many artists of our time have been led to work in an abstract style, as well as a brief illustrated summary of the abstract movement in Europe. Against this background, the author places the pioneer Armory Show generation of American artist and the wave of abstract art in America from 1912 to about 1925. Nearly half of the book is devoted to the second wave of abstraction which began about 1930 and appears to be still at its crest. 160 pp.; 227 illus. Published in 1951 and edited by Andrew Carnduff Ritchie, this rare book from MoMA Publications is available in extremely limited quantities. Each book from this special selection has been stored for decades in MoMA’s warehouse. MoMA’s award-winning publications program has been an integral part of the Museum’s mission since its founding in 1929. These exhibition- and collection-related titles are renowned for their high production values. Please note that the cover photo is for reference only and does not reflect the actual condition of the book being sold.