VVV: Poetry, Plastic Arts, Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology (Complete run)
New York: VVV, 1942-1944.
A complete run of the prominent, albeit short-lived, stateside Surrealist journal printed during WWII while many of its contributors were in exile. Four issues in three volumes. Text in English and French. Bound in publisher's printed wraps with the scarce "readymade" chicken wire inset at rear cover of No. 2-3 designed by Duchamp; housed in a custom clamshell case. Near Fine or better with fading to spine of No. 1, slight crushing and chipping to yapped edges at No. 2-3 & 4. Covers faintly rubbed, a little musty.
An extension of the Parisian Surrealist periodical Minotaure, VVV focused on the arts and politics, quickly becoming known for its bold typography, use of color, and unconventional layout. Its contributors were a who's who of the international avant-garde: Leonora Carrington, Andre Breton. Robert Motherwell, future vampire film auteur Jean Rollin, Joan Miro, Yves Tanguy, Dorothea Tanning, Kay Sage, Philip Lamantia and many more.
VVVs objective was uncomplicated: to serve as an avant-garde protest against fascism and build a bridge between European Surrealists and the nascent New York scene of arts and letters. Complete sets of this subversive periodical are seldom seen in the trade.
Price: $9,500
Status: On Hold