Picasso, Pablo

4to (368 x 270mm.), copy number 159 of a limited edition of 226 copies, one of 135 copies on vélin de Vidalon, 31 plates, crushed chestnut morocco by Georges Cretté, upper cover tooled to the shape of a B with feathery black sprays on a background of gilt swirls, lower cover with gilt swirls, spine lettered in gilt, brown suede endleaves, gilt edges, matching chemise and slipcase, original printed wrappers bound in

The Artist and the Book 231

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."

"The Buffon is one of the greatest bestiaries of the 20th century" (The Artist and the Book, p. 158). This copy is in immaculate condition in a splendid Cretté binding.

Fabiani was the successor of Ambroise Vollard, whose name appears as the watermark in the paper. Picasso had commenced work on the prints (using the technique of sugar aquatint) in February 1936, but Vollard died in July that year.