Joe Petro III's Copy of Hell's Angels by Hunter S. Thompson

Joe Petro III describes how he obtained his striking copy of the British hardback edition of Hell's Angels (1967) by Hunter S. Thompson, signed and embossed with the blind stamp of the author and generously embellished by Ralph Steadman (who, of course, worked extensively with Thompson but did not illustrate this book). The Gonzo emblem is by Thomas W. Benton. Joe writes:

The copy below Hunter signed for me in his kitchen while Ralph and I were visiting him at Owl Farm; that's where Ralph also did the drawing of Hunter for me. Hunter signed the book in red marker, stamped it, and then squeezed his embosser in to the page to top it off. I have been friends and a printmaker with Ralph and Hunter for over 20 years. 

Bad Craziness
"On behalf of the good doktor"
Ralph Steadman

Note:  I hope readers will feel free to use this blog to show off their own outstanding books signed by Ralph Steadman, Hunter S. Thompson, or their ilk, not that they have any ilk.

 

03549

Hell's Angels Signed by Hunter S. Thompson and Ralph Steadman

Hunter S. Thompson's first book, Hell's Angels (1967), describes his year with the California motorcycle gang. It was not illustrated by Ralph Steadman. Nevertheless, Steadman and the book's author signed this copy at Owl Farm, Thompson's home, for printmaker and friend Joe Petro III in 2004. The illustrator added a written tribute to his author friend as well as a drawing of Thompson on a scooter.

Ken Lopez, Bookseller

https://lopezbooks.com/item/29006/

Note:  As always, original illustrations by Ralph Steadman make welcome posts on this blog. Look for another marvelous copy of this book tomorrow.

03548