The Lay of Maldoror (1924) (Comte de Lautreamot) (Casanova Society) (John Rodker)

One of 100 hand-numbered copies signed by translator John Rodker, founder of the Cassanova Society—issued before the remaining 900. This is number 44. Introduction by Remy de Gourmont. Printed on handmade Zanders paper, uncut, with three tissue-guarded plates after Odilon Redon. Lacks dust-jacket. Bookplate of Geo H Brook on front pastedown. An important work that influenced the Surrealists. Reading Les Chants de Maldoror, for instance, André Breton found inspiration in the the line: “as beautiful as the chance encounter of a sewing machine and an umbrella on an operating table.” Condition: Gilt titling to spine a little faded. Boards every so slightly bowed, with light age wear. Light tanning to endpapers.