Hesse, Hermann

4to (8 5/8 x 6 7/8 in.; 220 x 175 mm). 27 leaves with 16 pages written, 13 original pen-and-ink and colored wash drawings with titles below by Hesse, [Montagnola, Switzerland,] 1921. Contemporary red morocco, gilt-ruled border, gilt-stamped title on spine, in marbled boards slipcase with red morocco edge; backstrip worn, slipcase splitting with some wear.

Helen Wolff — given by her to Rudolf and Irene Serkin

See R.C. Helt, A Poet or Nothing at All (1996), p. 6

see catalogue
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.

A charming autograph illustrated manuscript, inscribed "Geschreiben und gezeichnet von Hermann Hesse 1921," including several poems he created during this period to explore the interrelationship between poetry and painting. He began to compose small illustrated collections of poetry to give away or sell to his friends in 1900. The first collection bearing the title "Zwölf Gedichte" appeared in 1918. The collection includes the poems "Der Klang," "Magie der Farben," "Herbst," "Alle Tode," "Abscheidnehmen," "Holder Schein," "Bruder Tod," "Einsamer Abend," "Vergänglichkeit," "Malerfreude," "Entzückung," and "Abends." All the illustrations are in fresh colors, depicting Ticino landscapes.