Jazz portfolio.

This is a reprint from 1957 of a special edition of Matisse drawings made especially for the personnel of The Museum of Modern Art. It is in good condition. There is a little wear on the the binding. Piper-Bucherei Nr. 115. First edition. Publisher's pictorial paper-covered boards, illustrated with reproductions of Matisse's original color prints and a facsimile of his holograph writings, English translation of text staple-bound and laid in. A very good copy with some wear to extremities and some light scattered foxing to text block. Jazz was originally published as an artist's book containing twenty collage-style prints, known as the "cut-outs". Inspired by bright colors and circus themes, these works were created while Matisse was recovering from abdominal cancer and was limited in movement, unable to paint or sculpt. Though the prints were intended as cover ideas for the French art magazine Verve, the magazine's publisher decided to print them as a portfolio, along with Matisse's handwritten thoughts on his own work. This edition is part of a series of small art books printed by R. Piper and Co. The small-scale book features 14 beautiful lithograph printed full-color illustrations with accompanied French language text. This is a very unusual and truly special book for true Matisse fans and collectors. Hardback.