Les traveaux d'hercule
Immerse yourself in the mythical world of Heracles, as seen through the eyes of Ossip Zadkine, a master of Cubism and Expressionism. This rare and luxurious book, published in Paris around 1960, offers a unique visual interpretation of the classical myth, deeply rooted in the post-war period. With 28 impressive illustrations and three signed, original color lithographs, this work embodies Zadkine's powerful artistic vision and his ability to capture the human condition. It is not only an aesthetic masterpiece but also a historical document reflecting the influence of war experiences on art. The typographic design by Hans A. Halbey contributes to the overall cohesion and beauty of this edition, making it an indispensable piece for collectors of illustrated books and lovers of modern art.
Quantity
Zadkine, Ossip
Les traveaux d'hercule
1960 | Parijs | Parijs
An extraordinary bibliofiele art book capturing Zadkine’s poignant vision of human struggle in wartime, enriched with rare, signed lithographs.
Immerse yourself in the mythical world of Heracles, as seen through the eyes of Ossip Zadkine, a master of Cubism and Expressionism. This rare and luxurious book, published in Paris around 1960, offers a unique visual interpretation of the classical myth, deeply rooted in the post-war period. With 28 impressive illustrations and three signed, original color lithographs, this work embodies Zadkine's powerful artistic vision and his ability to capture the human condition. It is not only an aesthetic masterpiece but also a historical document reflecting the influence of war experiences on art. The typographic design by Hans A. Halbey contributes to the overall cohesion and beauty of this edition, making it an indispensable piece for collectors of illustrated books and lovers of modern art.
€900
Condition Report:
In-Depth Study
References & Bibliography
Format
In-8 (Octavo) approx. 20 × 26 cm
Edition Particulars
Copy of the book edition with the three signed color variants of the lithograph "La belle Nue".
Print Run
150
Copy Number
80
Paper
Velin
Inscription
Signed by the Illustrator
Product DETAIL
The book explores the myth of Heracles and his twelve labours, a classic tale of strength, suffering, and heroism. Zadkine's visual interpretation is imbued with the emotional and psychological depth of the hero. The work combines elements of mythology, personal reflection, and art history. The illustrations are not merely accompanying, but offer an independent narrative layer that enriches the traditional storytelling. The book also includes biographical essays and notes by the artist, contributing to a deeper understanding of his intentions.
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
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
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
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