Pierre Louys / Vidbergs - Les Chansons De Bilitis - 1928

The "Songs of Bilitis" is a collection of erotic, essentially lesbian, poetry by Frenchman Pierre Louys published in Paris in 1894. In 1928 a small selection of only 16 pieces from the collection were translated into Latvian by Janis Sudrabkalns. The selection was published as an art edition with exquisite graphics by Sigisnunds Vidbergs. Strictly limited edition of only 550 copies were numbered and signed by artist for each beneficiary (beneficiaries full list is included at the end of the book)

Sigismunds Vidbergs (1890-1970) the most notable representative of Art Deco graphic art, one of the most original Latvian artists of the 20th century whose creative legacy is characterised by its versatility. He has created in the field of easel and applied graphics, painting on porcelain, book and magazine illustrations and commercial drawings. In his works, technique of drawing with Indian ink dominates. The artist addressed a wide range of subjects: historical and contemporary motifs, urban and rural life, religious scenes, portraits, studies of architecture and nature. However, Vidbergs is best known in the general panorama of Latvian art for his elegant interpretations of erotic motifs, retaining a classical sense of measure even when addressing very risqué themes. Signed by Author.