A Humument: A Treated Victorian Novel

Tom Phillips' A Human Document (1892) is a postmodern masterpiece, first published in 1973. This final edition presents an entirely new and complete version of the book, with a revised Introduction by the late artist and 92 new illustrated pages.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

The final edition of the late Tom Phillips' 'defining masterpiece of postmodernism' is a remarkable achievement. In 1966, the artist discovered an obscure Victorian romance by W.H. Mallock titled "A Human Document" (1892). Intrigued by its potential, Phillips set himself the ambitious task of altering every page of the book through painting, collage, or cut-up techniques. The result was an entirely new version that breathed life into Mallock's original text.

While some of Mallock's original words remained intact, Phillips' artistic interventions brought forth the character of Bill Toge, his anti-hero, and his romantic plight. The first edition of "A Humument," as Phillips titled his altered book, was published in 1973. It quickly gained a cult following, solidifying its status as a seminal work of postmodernism.

Over the years, Phillips continued to work on refining his original, adding new pages in subsequent editions. His dedication to the project culminated in this final edition, which presents an entirely new and complete version of "A Humument." It includes a revised Introduction by the late artist, reflecting on the 50-year journey that led to this remarkable accomplishment. Additionally, the final edition boasts 92 new illustrated pages, further enhancing the visual appeal and depth of the book.

This final edition of "A Humument" is a testament to Tom Phillips' artistic vision and his unwavering commitment to his craft. It stands as a masterpiece of postmodernism, a testament to the power of art to transform and redefine literature. It will continue to inspire and captivate readers for generations to come.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 125 x 175 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500292891
Edition number: Final edition