Arcana:

(CUMMING, ROBERT). Cumming, Robert. Orange, CA: Robt. Cumming, 1971. First Edition 1/500. Oblong 12mo. Stapled Illustrated Wrappers. Artist's Book. Near Fine.. np (16pp), 16 b&w illustrations + b&w cover. In a protective clear acetate dustwrapper. "The Weight of Franchise Meat" is the wry 1971 self-published artist's book by the then California-based conceptual practitioner Robert Cumming. True to its title, Cumming stages and photographs sixteen tableaux featuring hamburger patties from Orange County burger chains A + W, Bob's Big Boy, Buddy's, Burger King, Carl's Jr., Denny's, Heinz, Jack-in-the-Box, McDonald's, and Punky's weighed on a postage scale. An otherwise handsome example of the 1971 first edition of this uncommon gem (cited on pages 146-147 of Martin Parr and Gerry Badger's "The Photobook: A History Volume II") limited to five hundred unnumbered copies showing some very mild soiling to the covers. Inventory Number: 026499