Bestaire.

1946. MASSON, André. Bestiaire. With an introduction by Georges Duthuit. Illustrated with 12 original lithographs and reproductions of 9 drawings by Masson. Folio, 415 x 315 mm, loose as issued in original decorated wrappers over boards. In a new linen cloth folding box. New York: Curt Valentin, 1946. A fine copy of one of Masson's most important books, with 2 signed proof plates printed before letters,(5 and 6), laid in. Bestaire was the first of Masson's comprehensive albums to be executed in original lithographs, and the first Masson work since Sacrifices (1936) to contain original Masson prints. "Masson's metaphor of the bestiality of humanity is a departure from his usual metaphysical view, and it stands as his unique and complete foray into personal social discourse" (Saphire). "In Masson's bestiary, man is the beast -- more sinister and savage than the rest of the animal world. The network of heavily inked black lines found in the artist's work at this time gave rise to the description l'homme à la plume" (Garvey). One of an edition of 135 copies. Saphire and Cramer, ANDRE MASSON: The Illustrated Books. No. 19. Saphire, André Masson: The Complete Graphic Work I: Surrealism 112-123. The Artist and the Book 192. Albertina, André Masson Graphik 145.