The History of Surrealist Painting

London: Weidenfeld & Nicolson, 1960. First edition. Cloth. Near Fine/Very Good. 9.5" by 8.5". Not Stated . The first English edition of this history of surrealist painting by Marcel Jean, an excellent copy in its pop up dust wrapper. The first edition of this volume narrating the creative history of surrealism, from its earlier precursors to its present day. With details on its struggles, periodicals, friendships and feuds, ideas, and political adventures. First published in French in 1959, this first English edition was translated by Simon Watson Taylor. Surrealism developed in Europe after World War I, with artists depicting unnerving, illogical scenes and developed techniques to allow the unconscious to express itself. Among the pioneers of this movement we can find Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Max Ernst, and many others. Illustrated with numerous plates in text, thirty-five in colour. In an attractive pop-up dust wrapper, unclipped. In the original publisher's full cloth binding. Externally lovely with only minor shelf wear and some minor marking to the rear bard. The dust wrapper is sound with some shelf wear and a minor chipping and closed tear. Internally, generally firmly bound, with some slightly tender hinges to the rear. The pages are bright and clean. Illustrated with numerous plates in text, thirty-five in colour. Near Fine