Carmel, California: Photography West Graphics, 1986. SIGNED hardcover first edition - Winner of the Photography Book of the Year Award, this is a retrospective collection of Bernhard's work, an erotic photography classic and a magnificently produced and very beautiful book. In her introduction, Bernhard states "In photographing the nude, it is my aim to transform the complexities of the figure into harmonies of simplified form. I have approached my work with the nude much as I create a still life, with patience and reverence. My quest through the magic of light and shadow, is to isolate, to simplify and to give emphasis to form with the greatest clarity." The 50 plates are arranged chronologically and span the years from 1934 to 1976. (list of plates at rear of book). Includes 2 essays by Margaretta K. Mitchell, one on photographing the nude, the other a brief biography of Bernhard. Ansel Adams - with whom Bernhard worked for many years - has been quoted as saying that Bernhard was "the greatest photographer of the nude. SIGNED by Bernhard on the title page. Printed by Gardner/Fulmer, using the Laser Fultone Process, to the highest standards. One of only 5400 copies. Large format. ISBN: 0-9616515-12.