Arcana:

(ALBERS, JOSEF). Boucher, Francois & Josef Albers. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 1961. First Edition. Small 4to. Debossed Boards in Acetate. Artist Monograph. Very Good/No Jacket. 88pp, 30 b&w illustrations. With a biography and bibliography. In a protective clear acetate dustwrapper. "Despite Straight Lines" is the elegantly designed 1961 publication on the work of legendary abstract artist and Bauhaus design teacher Josef Albers, who had just retired as the chair of the Yale University Art department. It combines black and white reproductions of his geometric compositions with analysis by Francois Boucher and observations by the artist. An internally most handsome example still in the publisher's obi with an errata slip and a "With Compliments of the Author" card laid in additionally bearing the BOLDLY SIGNED AND DATED PRESENTATION "for Edward Reep / August 1965 Josef Albers" in black ink on the half title page. Edward Reep was a California-based watercolor artist known for his work as a Combat illustrator with the U.S. Army in Italy during World War II. He has in turn SIGNED AND INSCRIBED the book "and to Adele from / Ed Reep 1967" in black ink beneath Albers' inscription. Adele has in turn written her name in ink on the inside of the front board. Inventory Number: 025055