Warhol, Andy

25 Cats Name Sam and One Blue Pussy.  [New York]: Printed by Seymour Berlin, [1954]



Small 4to (9 x 5  7/8  in.; 228 x 150 mm).  18 lithographs (including cover) by Warhol on Arches paper, vividly handcolored using Dr. Martin's ink washes, calligraphy by Warhol's mother, Julia Warhola; colophon page with browning and minor chipping at edges.  Off-white leatherette binding, handcolored lithographed label laid down on upper cover; binding soiled, label with glue stains at edges, browning and soiling, tears on spine expertly repaired. 

"Adrian" (inscription on cover)

As described in catalogue entry.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Copy 14 of 190 numbered copies, signed by Warhol.  The colophon lists the edition as 190 copies; however, there may have been under 150 produced.  Although the book contains no text, Charles Lisanby, who supplied the title, is credited as the author.

A brightly-colored copy of the most popular and enduring of Andy Warhol's early self-published books.   The calligraphy for 25 Cats Name Sam and One Blue Pussy (which actually contains only 16 cats named Sam) was done by Warhol's mother, who left the "d" off of the word "Name" in the title.  Warhol decided to let it stand.  After the lithographs for the book were printed, Warhol held "coloring parties" at which his friends were invited to color the cats.  The use of friends and assistants to complete his projects was a method the artist would continue to employ throughout his career.

The books were given by the artist as Christmas keepsakes to his friends and clients.  The inscription or name of the recipient is usually found in the lower left corner of the large label on the front cover.  The present copy is simply inscribed "Adrian." 

Warhol and his mother were both passionate cat lovers and named all their cats Sam, except for one named Hester.  These whimsical and sympathetic depictions of felines in various poses have been popular with the public for many years now.  The book has been reproduced in facsimile by Random House and the individual images have appeared on postcards, posters, notepads, and a variety of objects.