Arcana:

(PRINCE, RICHARD) (KLINE, FRANZ) (PAGE, BETTIE). Prince, Richard. New York: Gagosian Gallery, 2009. First Edition. Small Folio. Pictorial Boards. Artist's Book. Fine/No Jacket - As Issued. np (108pp), profusely illustrated in color and b&w. In a protective clear acetate dustwrapper. This is Richard Prince's massive hardbound artist's book entitled "Bettie Page". Starting with the premise that painter Franz Kline and Irving and Paula Klaw both pursued their "artistic practice" at the same Manhattan address during the fifties - perhaps sharing models, Prince juxtaposes appropriated images of Bettie Page alongside those of Kline and his works to set up a frisson between the pin-up legend's limbs/torso and the pioneering Abstract Expressionist's bold calligraphic brushstrokes. Previously shrouded art history revealed, or wry revisionist stroke book for sexy sophisticates - you decide! A brand new, most handsome example of this oh-so-luxe, calme and volupte tome. 1-935263-00-5 Inventory Number: 027218