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Zao Wou-Ki1994 original illustrated book titled "XXIV Sonnets de Shakespeare"1994
1994
About the Item
The 1994 original illustrated book titled "XXIV Sonnets de Shakespeare" showcases an extraordinary collaboration between the renowned Chinese-French artist Zao Wou-Ki and the prominent French poet and translator Yves Bonnefoy. This rare and limited edition is a sublime union of Shakespeare's timeless poetry, Bonnefoy's masterful translation, and Zao Wou-Ki's evocative etchings, which bring a new visual dimension to the Bard's sonnets.
Zao Wou-Ki: The Artist
Zao Wou-Ki (1920–2013) was a leading figure in the post-war abstract movement, blending elements of traditional Chinese art with modern Western abstraction. His artworks often evoke a sense of depth, movement, and emotion, making him a perfect match for illustrating Shakespeare's poetry, which navigates the complexities of love, time, and human nature. By 1994, Zao Wou-Ki had already established a formidable reputation, and this project represents one of his significant contributions to the world of illustrated books.
In "XXIV Sonnets de Shakespeare", Zao Wou-Ki created delicate etchings that accompany the translated sonnets. Each of his works resonates with the mood and tone of Shakespeare's verses, offering abstract interpretations that enhance the reader's emotional experience. Zao Wou-Ki's etchings are known for their subtlety, using light and shadow, lines, and textures to reflect the themes of the sonnets without directly depicting their content. His abstract style invites readers to engage with Shakespeare's poetry in a deeper, more intuitive way.
Yves Bonnefoy: The Poet and Translator
Yves Bonnefoy (1923–2016) was one of the most celebrated French poets and essayists of the 20th century. He was also a distinguished translator, known for his sensitive and insightful translations of Shakespeare into French. Bonnefoy's translation of 24 of Shakespeare's sonnets in this edition is more than a linguistic rendering; it is an artistic interpretation that captures the essence of Shakespeare’s language, rhythm, and emotional depth while making it accessible to a French-speaking audience.
Bonnefoy's choice of sonnets reflects a focus on themes of love, beauty, time, and mortality, central concerns of Shakespeare's poetic oeuvre. His translation paired with Zao Wou-Ki's visual interpretations offers a unique experience that blends the literary with the visual, creating a multifaceted exploration of Shakespeare’s work.
Production and Printing
This limited edition was published with exceptional care, ensuring that both the literary and artistic elements were presented in their finest form. The book measures 25cm x 19cm, a size that offers intimacy, inviting readers to engage closely with both the text and the images.
The edition was limited to 195 copies, divided into the following categories:
120 numbered copies from 1 to 120, which were nominative, meaning they were personalized for specific individuals.
45 numbered copies from 121 to 165.
30 Roman numeral copies from I to XXX, reserved for the author, the illustrator, the collaborators, and for legal deposit purposes.
In addition to the main edition, there were 30 suites of the etchings printed on chine contrecollé (China paper mounted on a stronger paper), all numbered and signed by Zao Wou-Ki. These suites were reserved for members of the Société, making them particularly rare and valuable.
The book’s typography and layout were executed with the highest standards, befitting the prestige of the project. The harmonious interplay of text and image, with each sonnet accompanied by its corresponding etching, reflects the careful design considerations taken in this edition.
Rarity and Collectibility
This edition of "XXIV Sonnets de Shakespeare" is highly collectible due to its limited print run, the involvement of two leading figures in their respective fields, and the quality of its production. The bibliographic reference Agerup 366 to 372 catalogues the book within the comprehensive records of Zao Wou-Ki's printmaking career, ensuring its place in the artist's official body of work.
Collectors and connoisseurs prize this edition not only for its artistic and literary merit but also for its rarity. The nominative nature of many copies adds a layer of exclusivity, while the signed etchings make the book a desirable object for art collectors. The chine contrecollé suites are particularly sought after, as they represent some of Zao Wou-Ki's most delicate and refined print work.
Conclusion
The 1994 edition of "XXIV Sonnets de Shakespeare" by Zao Wou-Ki and Yves Bonnefoy is a masterpiece of modern book art. Combining Shakespeare’s timeless poetry with the interpretative talents of Bonnefoy and Zao Wou-Ki, this book offers a unique reading experience that transcends the ordinary. With its limited print run and exquisite production, it stands as a treasured piece in the world of fine art books and is a must-have for collectors of modern illustrated works.
Illustrated Book
Lyrical Abstraction - Literature
25cm x 19cm each engraving copy N.22 - Limited edition of 195
Bibliography: Agerup 366 to 372.
- Creator:Zao Wou-Ki (1921, Chinese)
- Creation Year:1994
- Dimensions:Height: 13.78 in (35 cm)Width: 10.63 in (27 cm)
- Medium:
- Period:
- Condition:Very good condition.
- Gallery Location:PARIS, FR
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU1792215036522
Zao Wou-Ki
Zao Wou-Ki was born in Beijing, China, on February 13, 1921, to a wealthy family descended from the Song Dynasty.
French-educated Chinese artist Lin Fengmian was Wou-Ki’s teacher at the China Academy of Art from 1935–41 and encouraged him to study abroad in Paris. Wou-Ki made the move in 1948 with a substantial amount of financial backing and later adopted France as his new home, remaining in the country, besides a few short trips abroad, until his death.
In Paris, Wou-Ki quickly joined a large postwar French art circle, composed of key writers, poets, painters and cultural figures, including Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso, Riopelle and Vieira da Silva, among others. This networking helped position himself at the top of the Lyrical Abstraction movement. By his mid-30s, Wou-Ki had decided to devote his artistic career to abstract painting that blended Eastern and Western stylistic traditions.
In 2011, Wou-Ki was referred to in art publications as the top-selling living Chinese artist. He died in Nyon, Switzerland, on April 9, 2013, at the age of 93.
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