[Surréalisme] Georges Hugnet - Onan [1/277 sur alfa] - 1934

Rare original edition of this poetic and surrealist collection published by Georges Hugnet (1906-1974).

Limited edition of 277 copies. This one, without the Dali etching (reserved for the first 540), printed on Alfa bouffant paper, bears the number 86.

Softcover, with a printed cover featuring the title and a geometric design. In good condition, the cover shows some signs of handling. The interior is fresh and clean, free of foxing, with a discreet crease at the lower corners of the pages. A fine copy.

Already noticed by Breton for his articles on Dada, Georges Hugnet joined the group in 1932 and contributed to its renewal, along with Maurice Henry and Marcel Jean. Very dedicated to the cause, he offered, with Onan published by the group's editions in 1934, a typically surrealist book, both in its craftsmanship, paper choice, frontispiece, and subject, linked to desire and transgression. Named after a biblical character, the title alludes to an episode from Genesis: son of Jacob and brother of Er, Onan was struck down by divine justice for refusing to marry the widow of his deceased brother, who was still childless, as required by levirate customs, and for 'spilling his seed on the ground.' Jewish and Christian traditions later condemned this 'selfish' sexuality and refusal of conception, permanently linking the figure of Onan to themes of sexuality and rebellion, which were predominant among the surrealists.

Georges Hugnet
Onan
Surrealist Editions, Paris, 1934
in-4 (28 x 23cm); 18 pages