Livres d’artistes are a unique category of illustrated books. Originating in France during the early 20th century, these books are noteworthy because “each illustration is an original work executed by the artist directly on the support (stone, wood, metal, linoleum etc) from which it is printed.” A variety of artists, ranging from great names such as Chagall, Dali and Picasso to less popular names such as Brunelleschi, illustrated classic works at the request of specialized publishers. Printed on various artisan papers using unique typographies, oftentimes with additional features such as extra illustrations (suites) and elaborate bindings, these works are luxury items. The amount of publishers who printed these works was limited to a handful (most notably Vollard, Kahnweiler, Skira, Les Heures Claires and some private societies such as Les Bibliophiles de Provence). To maintain the luxury aspect of the livres d’artistes, publishers limited themselves to small editions, ranging from a few dozen to a few thousand but rarely exceeding that amount. As a result, these works have proven to be worthwhile investments for collectors seeking to widen their range of interest.

Besides existing in only limited numbers, these books are a worthwhile investment due to the guaranty of their authenticity. The process of print-making and the materials on which books are published make it quasi-impossible to counterfeit a book. Plates from which the images are produced are slashed so as to be unusable after printing. This warranty is further enhanced by the publisher’s guaranty that the edition is limited to a set amount of publications, printed in each book on a “justificatif” page. Thus one could own a piece by a great master without the worry of inauthenticity that plagues other mediums. Although livres d’artistes continue to be produced, most of the original publishing houses no longer exist due to the costliness of such editions. Thus the value of works published by them can only increase over time. Many collectors of such works chose to add to the value of their purchases by having professionals cover them with decorative bindings. “Throughout the 20th century, but especially since World War II, binding design reached remarkable standards in France,” so that a collector obtaining a bound work is actually purchasing two pieces of art. Given the richness of the works and their promise of increasing values, bibliophiles can be assured of the satisfaction their purchase will bring them.

Note: Listed below is sampling of what is available. There are more non-listed, higher quality works by Dali, Dyl, Leger, Meheut and Picasso available upon request. Interested collectors, please contact Mr. Steve Todd for pricing and availability at 805-522-6230 or by e-mail.