Max Ernst

First edition, deluxe issue, one of 58 numbered copies on Montval paper signed by the artist on the colophon, with two original color lithographs signed by Max Ernst.

Additionally illustrated with 11 full-page drawings reproduced in black and reproductions of paintings by the artist, including one folding plate.

Copy as issued, green wrappers illustrated with an original work by Ernst in perfect state of preservation without any trace of discoloration as is commonly found.

Superb copy of the Max Ernst exhibition catalogue published in 1950 by the René Drouin gallery in Paris, signed by the artist and accompanied by two signed lithographs, with texts by Joë Bousquet and Michel Tapié.

This volume includes a text by Bousquet entitled "A la hauteur des yeux", followed by 11 black and white drawings by Ernst illustrating an unpublished text by Bousquet entitled "Absolument ou le vide à l'envers". As Martin Krechting notes, "this exhibition was of great importance to Joë Bousquet: not only did he participate through loans of paintings from his collection - notably a large and very beautiful painting from 1940: 'Arbre solitaire et arbres conjugaux' - but it was he who wrote the preface to the catalogue. The decision to call upon Joë Bousquet for this work is all the more remarkable given that the poet could not have closely followed the pictorial activities undertaken by Max Ernst while the latter was in exile in the United States." The work also contains a commentary by Michel Tapié entitled "Max Ernst, plasticien du monde et perturbateur des classes du réel".

An exceptional collection of graphic works by Ernst, who would choose one of the drawings from this work as his bookplate (p. 38).