871 Fine Arts Book Store

Elite '08

62

359

Barb B.

San Jose, CA

This place is a gem! Every time I go in here, I come out with at least 3 books. We came out with six (!!!) tonight! I had been looking for books on avant-garde artists from Japan (Gutai) and lo and behold...of course this place had some. I had been looking for this old book on triptychs as well and there it was!! They have catalogs from art shows by specific artists as well group and regional artists. Their small gallery space also has some interesting art. A lot more thoughtful work shown here than some of the flash, dash and brass of the other galleries on the same floor. The staff is helpful and knowledgable. Always one of my favorite spots at 49 Geary.

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Elite '08

70

289

Dorothy S.

San Francisco, CA

GREAT selection!  Some of the most obscure art books (i.e., out of print, books published abroad, etc.), you may just find what you're looking for in this little bookstore.

The location is optimal in that you can gallery hop and go art book shopping all in one go!  If you are anything like me, you can spend a couple hours alone in this bookshop alone.  The only reason why I don't want to give 5 out of 5 stars is the pricing.  Although I was able to find an out of print Hans Bellmer book and a rare paper book on Symbolist Art, if you are patient, you can save some money looking on either ebay (or half.com) or just paying a visit to bookshops with specialized art sections.  It's entirely up to you!

Overall, from antiquity to contemporary art, it's a good selection of books and resources.  Just as long as you show your seriousness and profound interest in the Arts, the staff is quite helpful.  You may find yourself talking yourself out of buying that hard to find book but if you are okay with spending a pretty penny, it's a great place.

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25

232

Tamar N.

San Francisco, CA

I have only been here one time, but I work at a gallery around the corner and know for certain that I will be back.

The staff is very helpful and friendly. and if they can help, they will.  Thats all you need at a rare book seller, really.

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5

73

Damon S.

Oakland, CA

My faovrite place in the whole Bay Area. I have not had the money to set foot in there in a while but soon...
They have great, small but serious art shows and the best art catalog selection I have seen in the US.
Some of the prices are high - never more than market rate and fair. Just as often she has an out of print book sealed new for the new price.

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