For your consideration is a First Edition Tom Lea Book Collection including "A Picture Gallery" 1968, and "The Wonderful Country" 1952. "A Picture Gallery" is a Handed-Signed First Edition two-volume set in a slipcase by Tom Lea, originally published in 1968, which functions as both a memoir and a portable exhibition of his life's work. The set includes a narrative book where Lea describes the context of his creations and a portfolio containing 35 high-quality prints—12 in color and 23 in monochrome. Book is hand-signed on half-title page. First Edition "The Wonderful Country" is a classic 1952 Western novel written and illustrated by the El Paso artist and author Tom Lea. Set along the rugged Texas-Mexico border shortly after the Civil War, the story is widely considered a masterpiece of Southwestern literature. The book is famous for its extensive illustrations by Lea himself, including detailed endpapers and chapter drawings. Thomas Calloway "Tom" Lea III (1907–2001) was a highly versatile American artist, muralist, author, and war correspondent. A native of El Paso, Texas, his work is deeply rooted in the history and landscapes of the American Southwest and his experiences during World War II. Lea is celebrated for his ability to capture the human condition with "haunting precision" across the multiple mediums of war art, murals and literature. The books are in nicely preserved condition. Respective measurements are 11.375"W x 16.25"L x 1.75"D and 5.625"W x 8.5"L x 1"D. Combined weight is 7lb, 8oz.