Paul Lemaire (Atelier Maurice Dumont) for Eugène Béjot, Paris, 1896.
A UNIQUE SET OF THIS RARE AND WONDERFUL FIN-DE-SIECLE PORTFOLIO OF LITHOGRAPHIC SKETCHES DEPICTING PARIS AND SOME OF ITS ELEGANT (mostly female) RESIDENTS.
Eight large lithographs, printed on fine laid paper, in the original lithographed portfolio case with Béjot's manuscript signature and limitation statement on the front cover (the case is illustrated with two additional lithographs, for a total of ten).
From a total edition of 60 numbered sets, this is COPY NUMBER ONE, BEJOT'S OWN COPY, IN WHICH EACH OF THE LITHOGRAPHS IS SIGNED AND DATED IN PENCIL BY THE ARTIST AND STAMPED WITH HIS SMALL MONOGRAM STAMP (in other sets, the lithographs are stamped but not signed or dated).
Béjot was known mainly for his precise and detailed etchings; his lithographs are more impressionistic and modern. His entire lithographic oeuvre comprises 15 works, of which this portfolio includes 10.
Large folio. Each lithograph measures 50.5 x 41 cm (20 x 16 inches). The lithographs are FINE AND BRIGHT, in absolutely perfect condition. The silk ties of the portfolio case are damaged. Otherwise the case is surprisingly fresh, in excellent condition.
