Saint Laurent, Yves. (1936–2008)
"Kouros" - SIGNED
Paris: Maquette et Edition Mafia. [1981]. First and only edition. . Interesting portfolio entitled "Kouros," limited to 1,500 copies, this being copy no. 909 of 1000 numbered. 8 bifolia; 9 printed poems, each accompanied by a full-page illustration on the opposing page; 10 plates in total (including one double page plate) printed in blues, black and silver in a pochoir style; decorated leaf with title and justification; loose in printed blue wrappers, housed in original printed white cardboard case. 380 x 280mm (15 x 11"). 0.7kg. This copy signed and inscribed by the artist and author on a preliminary page in black ink to the model Kris Lovimaskaia: "Pour Kris, avec amour, Yves, 23 Octobre 1986, Paris." Contents in fine condition; the original box which has preserved the book well exhibits extensive wear and staining. A wonderful piece from one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century.A beautifully produced artist's book by Yves Saint Laurent publicising his perfume Kouros, "the scent of the Gods". Saint Laurent's poems are accompanied by his illustrations. His words and images combine Greek myth and art with the male body and the perfection of masculine beauty. The book was issued as a luxurious publicity brochure and, although there was a limitation of 1,500, copies are now scarce. OCLC records only two copies. The inscription is from the year after Caroline Rennolds Milbank wrote, "The most consistently celebrated and influential designer of the past twenty-five years, Yves Saint Laurent can be credited with both spurring the couture's rise from its sixties ashes and with finally rendering ready-to-wear reputable." (12283)
Signed Document/Item Art & Design