Music Smith reveals book cover with unpublished image by Robert Mapplethorpe

Patti Smith revealed the cover of his next book of memories, Bread of Angelswhich hits bookstores on November 4, 2025. The chosen image is an unprecedented photograph of Robert Mapplethorpemade in 1979 in the collector’s coverage apartment Sam Wagstaff, At One Fifth Avenue in New York.

The release date is not casual. November 4th marks the anniversary of Mapplethorpe and also the date of the death of Fred “Sonic” Smithhusband of Patti.

“This photo was taken in the same room where he photographed the cover of Horses” Smith on their social networks, referring to the emblematic first album of 1975. Photography represents the continuation of an artistic collaboration that transcended the death of Mapplethorpe in 1989 and continues to influence the work of the singer and writer.

Bread of Angels accompanies the complete trajectory of Smith From childhood in the working class of Philadelphia and southern New Jersey to his rise as a star of punk rock and subsequent departure from public life. The book represents a decade of the author’s work to process memories and experiences.

The work promises to be the most complete account of the moments that defined their career and personal life, including poorly documented periods of their removal from the stage.

The publication coincides with the celebrations of the 50 years of Horsesalbum that revolutionized alternative rock. Smith Embark on October on the album’s European birthday tour.

The connection with Mapplethorpe remains central to the artistic life of Patti. The photographer, who was his apartment companion in the legendary Chelsea Hotel In the 1970s, it remains aesthetic and emotional reference in its projects.

SAM WAGSTAFFowner of the apartment where the photo was taken, was a crucial figure in the new Yorchine art scene of the 1970s and 1980s. Collector and patron, he financially supported several artists, including including Mapplethorpeand his apartment at One Fifth Avenue became a meeting point for the cultural elite of the time.

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