Ovidius Naso, Publius

4to (330 x 258mm.), copy number 14 from a limited edition of 145 copies, each signed by Picasso beneath the limitation, one of 30 copies on japon blanc a la forme and one of 25 copies with a suite of etchings on japon with remarques in black, printed in red and black, 15 illustrations (one at the start of each book) and 15 etchings, an additional suite of 30 etchings at end (comprising both the illustrations and plates), loose and uncut as issued in printed paper wrapper, card folder and slipcase

The Artist and the Book 224

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Picasso's illustrations were commissioned by Albert Skira after the subject was suggested to Picasso by Matisse. He completed his illustrations early in 1931, and his book was included in Skira's first list of publications; the two later collaborated on Skira's surrealist magazine Minotaure, which ran from 1933 to 1939.

The text contains fifteen episodes from the Metamorphoses, in the prose translation of the Sorbonne Classicist, Georges Lafaye, published in 1928.