MARC CHAGALL

Four Tales from the Arabian Nights, New York, Pantheon Books, Inc., 1948 (Mourlot 36-48; C., books 18)

Details

MARC CHAGALL
Four Tales from the Arabian Nights, New York, Pantheon Books, Inc., 1948 (Mourlot 36-48; C., books 18)
the complete deluxe set of 13 signed, numbered and inscribed lithographs in colors, on laid paper, the colors fresh and strong, individual folders with text and reprodutions of the artist's line drawings, title, justification and table of contents, on wove paper, each lithograph inscribed 'Out of series' and with the plate number, copy F of K (there was also the edition of 90 lacking the thirteenth lithograph and the deluxe edition of 10 with the additional lithograph and the progressive proofs), with full margins, in excellent condition, original wove paper-covered, ribbon-tied portfolio with the printed title (split at the edge of the spine), paper-covered slipcase (broken at the edges, slightly worn). 440 x 335mm.
the set (13)

Lot Essay

Four Tales from the Arabian Nights was produced at the instigation of Jacques Schiffin of Pantheon Books after Chagall had reached New York from occupied France in 1941. Superb illustrations of the lithographer's art, they are generally regarded as the most important set of color lithographs produced in America prior to 1950.
In addition to the regular edition of 90 examples, a small edition of ten, lettered A-K, were produced which included a thirteenth lithograph of which the current lot is a rare survival in its completeness and extraordinary condition.