[Jugendstil Classic- Preissig] Byl Jeden Domecek

Prague: Dedictvi Komenskeho, [1905].

First edition. Bound in the original scarce pictorial card wrappers (gray/beige with light blue design by Preissig. Twelve superb full-page color zincographs by Preissig, the renowned Czech typographer, printmaker, designer, illustrator and teacher. Very rare first edition, seldom found in the wrappers, of the famous Czech children's book. The little text portrays the transience of being on the bottom of a somewhat morbid food chain: from which the cat eats, to oxen, which serve men for a feast, which are finally buried. Alfred Langer writes to the Jugendstil artist Vojtech Preissig: "According to his motto of the" full-blooded bookgraphist, " he demanded a synthesis of craftsmanship and art. The harmony of writing and book decoration was regarded as the most desirable goal. "(Langer, Jugendstil und Buchkunst, p. 175). Near fine with minimal corner wear.

Price: $1,200.00   Item #3633