Benoit, Pierre. Le Puits de Jacob [“Jacob’s Well.”]

AUCTION 63 | Thursday, November 13th, 2014 at 1:00

Fine Judaica: Books, Manuscripts, Autograph Letters, Graphic and Ceremonial Art

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Lot 264

(SZYK, ARTHUR).

Benoit, Pierre. Le Puits de Jacob [“Jacob’s Well.”]

<<One of 15 copies>> on vélin d’arches numbered in Roman numerals, this copy, numbered: “X.” Magnificent hand-colored illustrations by Szyk. Fifteen exquisite hand-colored initials and twelve miniature paintings. Signed binding by Semet & Plumelle (Paris). * This copy with: <<Original pochoir illustration by Szyk>> on opening free endpaper. Contemporary 3/4 morocco over purple marbled boards with spine elaborately gilt, original printed wrappers (including backstrip) bound in; pp. 105-112 (including illuminated initial letter) duplicated at end. 4to.

Paris: Albin Michel 1927

Est: $4,000 - $6,000

Le Puits de Jacob was the first modern work of fiction illustrated by Szyk. “The theme of the novel accords perfectly with Szyk’s personal belief that Biblical stories and teachings can serve as role models for modern Jewry.” See J.P. Ansell, Arthur Szyk (2004) pp. 47-9, 273.