RAMIRO (Erastène). Louis Legrand, painter-engraver. Catalog - Lot 252

RAMIRO (Erastène). Louis Legrand, painter-engraver. Catalog of his engraved and lithographed work. A bibliophile's copy, with four original etchings and three illustrated invitation cards, in a fine Affolter binding. Paris, Floury, 1896. In-4 volume (280 x 190 mm), Bradel-style in black half-maroquin with corners, cold-stamped fillets on boards, smooth spine, author, title and date in gilt lettering at foot, gilt head. Covers and spine preserved. (Binding signed Affolter). 109 pp. 10 original etchings, including one on the cover and 4 added. Some scattered foxing. First edition of the first major monograph devoted to the artist. Limited edition of 250 copies, one of 200 on vellum (no. 229). The book's illustrations initially include an etched self-portrait on the cover, 5 etched hors-texte plates and 50 vignettes and ornaments. A richly illustrated copy: four original full-page etchings and three illustrated invitation cards (mounted on two plates) have been added to the binding, bringing the total number of original etchings to ten. "A student of Félicien Rops, Louis Legrand (1863-1951) established himself as the master of psychological etching at the end of the 19th century. A keen observer of social mores, he abandoned academicism to explore backstage at the Opéra, Montmartre nights and Breton fishermen and peasants, among his favorite subjects. His brushwork captures the fragility and sensuality of his models with an uncanny modernity. Prestigious provenance: Library of André Barrier (1870-1957), with his bookplate. A magistrate and great bibliophile, he chaired the Société des Cent Bibliophiles and was a prominent member of the Amis des Livres and the Bibliophiles du Palais. A precious reference copy, unique for its enrichments and provenance.