This is a rare first edition (1946) of Picasso: Paintings, 1939-1946, published by Lindsay Drummond Ltd., London, in collaboration with Les Éditions du Chêne, Paris. The book presents an insightful introduction by art critic John Russell, alongside a collection of 16 full-color plates showcasing Picasso’s works from the wartime and immediate post-war period. These include portraits, still lifes, and other iconic compositions that highlight his evolution during this turbulent historical moment.

Condition Report:

• Cover: The original softcover jacket is present but heavily worn, with creases, tears, stains, and fraying along the edges. The front cover remains intact but fragile, with small notations on the right side.

• Binding: Retains its original spiral binding, which is quite uncommon, but the spiral is loose, and pages are delicate. Some parts of the binding show separation from the spine.

• Pages & Plates: The pages are intact but show signs of aging, including yellowing, foxing, and edge wear. However, the full-color plates remain vibrant and well-preserved.

• Interior: Some pages have small tears and folded corners, particularly along the edges.

Features:

• First edition (1946)

• 16 high-quality tipped-in color plates

• Original spiral binding

• Introduction by renowned art critic John Russell

• A significant collection of Picasso’s paintings from 1939 to 1946

• Printed in France

Why This Book is Special:

This volume serves as an important historical document of Picasso’s artistic production during and after World War II. The combination of detailed critical essays and color reproductions makes it a valuable collector’s item for art historians, Picasso enthusiasts, and rare book collectors alike.

Due to its fragile condition, this book is best suited for archival preservation, research purposes, or framing individual plates rather than casual reading.