inscribed and with an original pastel by the translator

A superb presentation copy inscribed by the translator within a full page pastel artwork of a stylised flower/sun, 'for Peggy with love Roland'. Though tempting to imagine the book to have been inscribed to the great Peggy Guggenheim, the actual presentee is a much closer association for Penrose. Rosamund Berniers ( née Rosamond Margaret Rosenbaum), was an art critic and long-time friend of the translator. Penrose, a considerable artist in his own right, is perhaps best known as the greatest proponent of Surrealism in the UK. Instrumental in staging the 1936 International Surrealist Exhibition in London he would would go on to establish, with Lee Miller, The Elephant Trust whose goal is, "to develop and improve the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the fine arts in the United Kingdom." Penrose would often illustrate his presentation inscriptions but this one is particularly nice.

Rosamond Berniers, née Rosamond Margaret Rosenbaum was familiarly known as Peggy.

First edition in English, first impression, hardback issue. Inscribed and with an original pastel by the translator. 8vo; publisher's black boards, titles to spine in silver. With the dust jacket. A very good copy in the lightly rubbed dust jacket with one or two very short tears.