Le Cocu Magnifique

1968. PICASSO, Pablo. Le Cocu Magnifique. By Fernand Crommelynck. [3-10], 11-173, [5] pp. Illustrated with 7 etchings, 4 aquatints with etching, and 1 aquatint with drypoint and etching, all by Picasso. Oblong folio, loose as issued in the original vellum wrappers and morocco folding box, in a cloth folding box. Paris: Editions de l'Atelier Crommelynck, 1968. Picasso drew on his own vast repertory of myths to illustrate this play by Crommelynck, which tells the story of a man undone by jealousy. Picasso had a lifelong relationship with Crommelynck, and he had intended to illustrate the play for quite some time before this edition finally appeared (the play was first presented in 1920). Crommelynck's sons, who had opened a printing atelier in 1963, printed many of Picasso's later prints, and produced the present work. This is one of 150 copies signed by Picasso and Crommelynck, from a total edition of 200. A mint copy of this marvelous book. Goeppert 140.