This Phaidon 55 volume is best viewed as a concise reference monograph rather than a major collectible photobook object. Its strength lies in clarity and editorial economy: Elisabeth Sussman’s essay gives readers a compact framework for understanding Lisette Model’s place in twentieth-century photography, while the 55 plates and commentaries create a chronological path through her development.

For collectors, the appeal is not rarity but usefulness. It is a dependable, affordable entry-point title for those building a library around street photography, women photographers, or the genealogy of psychologically charged portraiture and social observation. Because it belongs to the standardized Phaidon 55 format, the book is more series-driven than object-driven, and thus usually carries modest market premium unless found in exceptional condition or as part of a complete run.

Still, it has lasting value as a shelf reference. For collectors who want a compact, intelligent, and visually coherent introduction to Model—without moving immediately to larger exhibition catalogues—this remains a practical and worthwhile volume.