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Dedale

SKU DEDA-001

Dédale is an exceptional collaboration between the poet Pierre Lecuire and the abstract master André Lanskoy, resulting in one of the most visually impressive bibliophile publications of the 20th century. This work transcends the traditional book through a fusion of poetic expression and powerful graphic art. Lanskoy's etchings are not mere illustrations, but form an integral dialogue with Lecuire's text, creating a profound sensory experience. The meticulous execution, from the handmade paper to the luxurious binding, testifies to an uncompromising commitment to artistic perfection. The book represents a pinnacle in artist's books, offering a unique glimpse into the aesthetic ideals of post-war French avant-garde. Its rarity and artistic quality make it a highly sought-after object for collectors and lovers of modern art and literature.

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Dedale
1963 | Paris | Lecuire, Pierre
Dédale is a masterpiece of the artist's book, a rare synthesis of poetry and abstract art, essential for any collection of 20th-century bibliophilia.

Dédale is an exceptional collaboration between the poet Pierre Lecuire and the abstract master André Lanskoy, resulting in one of the most visually impressive bibliophile publications of the 20th century. This work transcends the traditional book through a fusion of poetic expression and powerful graphic art. Lanskoy's etchings are not mere illustrations, but form an integral dialogue with Lecuire's text, creating a profound sensory experience. The meticulous execution, from the handmade paper to the luxurious binding, testifies to an uncompromising commitment to artistic perfection. The book represents a pinnacle in artist's books, offering a unique glimpse into the aesthetic ideals of post-war French avant-garde. Its rarity and artistic quality make it a highly sought-after object for collectors and lovers of modern art and literature.

€1,420
Condition Report:
In-Depth Study
References & Bibliography
Format
Divers
Edition Particulars
1 of 145 numbered copies on hand-made Auvergne paper (Richard-de-Bas).
Print Run
190
Copy Number
68
Paper
Auvergne (Richard-de-Bas)
Inscription
Signed by the Author,Signed by the Illustrator

Product DETAIL

Dédale explores the complexity of the human psyche and the existential labyrinth of life. Lecuire's poetic work is imbued with depth and philosophical reflections, often inspired by mythological themes. The text unfolds as an introspective journey, inviting the reader to traverse the hidden paths of consciousness. Lecuire's language is rich in metaphors and symbolism, revealing a new layer of meaning with each reading. This book is not only a literary achievement but also a meditation on the nature of creation and the search for identity in an ever-changing world.

Arrière-histoire du poème pulvérisé
Char, Rene · Stael, Nicolas de
Arrière-histoire du poème pulvérisé

*Arrière-histoire du poème pulvérisé* is a later illustrated edition of a key text in which René Char looks back on the genesis and inner background of *Le Poème pulvérisé*. Published in 1972 by Imprimerie Union, it opens with a colour frontispiece by Nicolas de Staël. The pairing of Char and de Staël is especially charged: two post-war voices, each seeking concentration, clarity, and rupture in his own medium. This copy is one of only six hors commerce copies on Arches and is signed. The autograph presentation inscription to Doctor Marcel Zara, with poetic quotation and October 1972 dating, makes it a deeply personal copy.

Illustrated Book
€920
Amis & Amille. Mystère du XIVe siècle.
Derain, André
Amis & Amille. Mystère du XIVe siècle.

This sumptuously bound book brings a medieval mystery to life through a rare collaboration between ancient literature and modern illustration. The geometric box design on garnet morocco provides striking contrast. André Derain’s 22 color lithographs – including one double and three full-page – enhance the narrative with expressive visual force. Printed on Rives vellum in an edition of 180 numbered copies, this copy (No. 72) was made for Baroness Vaxelaire and includes a suite on fine Japanese paper. The binding by Lucie Weill exemplifies artisanal excellence. A harmonious blend of narrative tradition and graphic daring.

Illustrated Book
€1,460
Arriver à se réveiller
Michaux, Henri · Bettencourt, Pierre
Arriver à se réveiller

A rare first edition of Arriver à se réveiller, written by Henri Michaux in the tremulous post-war years. The text unfolds as an inward journey toward lucidity, where sleep and waking mirror each other. Printed and published by Pierre Bettencourt in his own workshop, the edition’s small run preserves the work’s intimacy. The title-page vignette, a linocut by Bettencourt, sets a spare, rhythmic visual key that amplifies Michaux’s vigilant, vulnerable tone. This copy is handsomely bound in brown morocco with balsa boards by Miguet, a tactile nod to lightness under tension. For bibliophiles, it is an exemplary union of poetry, craft, and experiment. The volume embodies the independence of the post-war small press and Michaux’s radical sensitivity.

Illustrated Book
€680
Au dépens des mots
Hugnet, Georges · Valentine, Hugo
Au dépens des mots

An exceptional oblong in-16 volume bound in a single tome, comprising three editions of Au dépens des mots, including the exceedingly rare tête-de-tête edition on nacré japon.

Illustrated Book
€3,200
Studies & Dossiers
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When a Signature Becomes Provenance

A signature confirms; a dedication connects; an association copy tells a story.

a2528886ab741f214e81c180bed24f0dd3fc06e8.png
The Fragile Meaning of ‘Complet’

In auction descriptions, “complete” often sounds reassuring — but it is only meaningful when verified against the colophon, the justification, and the bibliography. For The Hidden Page, clarity begins where vague market language ends.

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Size does (not) matter

Size does (not) matter: The Paradoxical Power of Format in Avant-Garde Book Art

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