I remember looking at the picture when I first bought the album and wondering, what’s holding the bundle on to his back? It doesn’t look like there is a strap around his body.... And why is there a knee protector on just one side? I guess that is explainable if he is on a roof....
https://deadline.com/2023/11/led-zeppelin-iv-cover-photo-1235596856/ Here’s a bit more information on this story....
Wondered that as well. I think it is the walking stick on his left side driven up into the bundle.