Beschreibung:

Le Bestiaire de Paul Eluard Author: Eluard, Paul Place Published: [Paris] Publisher: Maeght Éditeur Date Published: [1948] Description: With 86 etchings by Roger Chastel (including full-page illustrations and 42 decorative initials). First leaf of each bifolium: 38x25.8 cm (15x10¼"): second leaf of each: 38x31 (15x12¼"). etched illustrated folder containing 48 loose bifolia, original chemise and slipcase. Etchings printed by Roger Chastel and Jean Signovert Type set by hand and printed by Marthe Fequet et Pierre Baudier. Copy no. 76, one of 148 standard copies on Vélin de Lana from a total edition of 196. "In his own account of these illustrations, Chastel comments that 'one does not illustrate a book, one extends it.' It was at Eluard's suggestion that the artist undertook these etchings, for which he made preliminary sketches at the zoo, then, 'forced to capture Eluard's creatures, to subdue and tame them, I must needs become a sort of fowler. Free in their net of words, I must leave them free within the bounds of form. This is the function of the graphic element in the work. To express the beautiful Latin word delieare, to free the line, to deliver it – that is the beginning of the struggle with form.' Unhampered by other notable besitiaries of the 20th century, Chastel has created a menagerie of freshness and wit." - The Artist & the Book, p. 44. Condition: Some cracks to slipcase and chemise at spine ends, chemise spine darkened a bit; a bit of light foxing within; internally near fine. Item#: 356303 Headline: Eluard's Bestiary with 86 etchings by Chastel