1937 Tartarin de Tarascon: Unique Copy with 74 bound-in Proofs with small Drawings, Corrections and Annotations by Raoul Dufy, in a magnificent Mosaic Binding by two female Bookbinders
Daudet, Alphonse (1840-1897). Aventures prodigieuses de Tartarin de Tarascon. Paris, Scripta et picta, 1937.
207 p., with 107 original colour lithographs and 34 similar initials, all by Raoul Dufy (1877-1953).
Large quarto (approx. 33 x 25 cm).
Pearl grey and blue calf leather binding with richest morocco leather mosaic onlays, evoking a colourful harbour with ship masts and pavilions against a light blue sky over darker sea blue; light blue suede doublures, fawn flyleaves also of suede, gilt edges, half-leather chemise, slipcase, signed "G(ermaine) de Coster - H(élène) Dumas" - 1974.
One of the most joyful livres d’artiste:
We present here Raoul Dufy's most important illustrated work in a unique copy: 74 pages of galley proofs with Dufy's own drawings, annotations, deletions and improvements (especially to the colours) are bound in at the end, making the production process fascinatingly transparent. No. 55 of 130 copies, without exception printed on Vélin de Rives.
The stupendous binding by Germaine de Coster (the only one that she created for this book), one of her most astonishing achievements, is congenial to the text in its Provençal, Mediterranean lightness. In mint condition. Listed in de Coster's catalogue raisonné under no. 98, exhibited in the BN 1979. (This book was sold from our catalogue XV of 1984, no. 36 with illustration on back cover for CHF 68,000 and has now been reacquired).
The 1937’s Tartarin de Tarascon – begun in 1931 – was the first important book illustrated by a painter with original lithographs in colour. The production time for this ambitious project totalled six years: Raoul Dufy drew 107 in-text compositions and 34 historiated initials for this book, which required the use of 385 stones: “a great technical challenge to the printers” (Garvey). On each page, the capital letters of the paragraphs are printed in a colour that matches the dominant colour of the illustration on the page. Carteret: « Belle publication moderne, la plus importante de l'artiste »
Literature: Carteret IV, 133; Rauch 85; Garvey 94.
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Germaine de Coster: Keen observation of nature meets poetic imagination
Germaine de Coster (1895-1992)
A Knight of the Legion of Honor since 1946, Germaine de Coster's artistic expression was deeply influenced by her skills as an engraver. Her book bindings are celebrated for their unique designs, combining straight lines, sharp angles, and poetic motifs inspired by nature. These bindings, masterfully executed by Hélène Dumas, are noted for their architectural and decorative qualities, as well as their rare distinction. Together with Rose Adler, Germaine de Coster can be considered the most important female bookbinder of the 20th century. In a way, we have to regard this aw-inspiring gem as Germaine de Coster's Swan Song.
Germaine de Coster was born in Paris on September 1, 1895. A talented artist from a young age, she pursued her studies at the National School of Decorative Arts starting in 1912, specializing in Graphic Arts. Her career spanned various fields including textiles, theater decor, and costume design. In 1921, she began teaching decoration at the professional schools of the City of Paris and later at the Technical College of Applied Arts on Rue Duperré.
Her involvement with the Society of Decorative Artists from 1936 and later with the Society of Original Binding marked significant milestones in her career. Germaine de Coster's works, often executed by Hélène Dumas and signed De Coster-Dumas, were highly regarded and showcased in numerous exhibitions. She received numerous accolades, including a gold plaque from the Society of Encouragement for Art and Industry, and in 1951, a prestigious award from the Society of Original Binding.
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