Profils stiklā : mazas dziesmas (Profile in the Glass : Short poems) [cover degisn by “Latvian Amedeo Modigliani”; the highest achievement of expressionism in graphic art of Latvia]

Fine condition; some minor foxing on the cover, otherwise perfect. Possessory signature on the title page.

The first collection of poems by popular Latvian poetess Elza Ķezbere (1911-2011) is characterized not by the heroical, tragical or romantic pathos common for the majority of young poets, but it reveals love for small things around, the beauty of everyday life and the present moment, sincerity and tenderness, desire for love. The poetry is fragile, deeply sensual, romantic and sadly-touching, but not pessimistic, that's why it is close and clear to almost everyone.

Ķezbere has written nine poetry books. More than 140 of her poems have been used as lyrics for popular songs. In 1944, she fled to Germany, and had lived in New York since 1950.

Book's very original and highly uncommon for Latvian art expressionist cover design created by one of the most extravagant and legendary artists Kārlis Padegs (1911–1940). Because of his defiant bohemian life, provocative art and early death he could be compared with Amedeo Modigliani. Padegs strove to shock the morality of his contemporaries (as did avant-garde artists) with biting social criticism by depicting squalid tragedy of the streets - the city's poor, prostitutes, drunkards, cripples, debauches. In the focus were also themes of war and death. Sarcasm, grotesque, absurd, paradoxes are among his most frequently employed means of expression.