Zehn Kupferstiche [Die Grundlagen des 20. Jahrhunderts] by Smith, Eddy [Edmund Richard Max] - 1921

Berlin, 1921. First edition, number 79 of 200 numbered copies. Ten copper engravings (each approximately 2 ½ x 3 ½ inches), each signed by the artist (one signed upside-down on the top edge), each mounted and housed in an individual passepartout, titled on the exterior in pencil, with a leaf of patterned glassine laid in. The whole housed in a folding portfolio of half vellum over patterned paper boards, with vellum tabs. With the original publisher's cardboard slipcase, numbered 79 on the exterior. Some general age-toning, glassine leaves a bit darkened. The slipcase shows a bit of wear. Overall an excellent copy.

Eddy Smith (1895-1957) was active during the Weimar era and associated with the Neue Sachlichkeit movement. Known as a painter, illustrator (of Baudelaire, Villon, and others), and printmaker, this portfolio and Die Schwarze Mappe (1924) represent the height of his artistry. While Die Schwarze Mappe is more focused on social critique, the precise and highly detailed engravings in this collection are more erotic, at the same time both whimsical and demonic. A major and rare work, unacknowledged in many surveys. OCLC locates no copies. An exhibit showcasing work from both portfolios was held at the Ubu Gallery in 2016.