“E. GORDON CRAIG: L’HOMME QUI N’A RIEN FAIT”
Paris: circa 1936. Typescript, 16 p. on rectos only of fine laid paper (8 ½” x 6 ½”), with handmade and lettered paper wrappers. The wrappers are detached, with chipping along the edges.
A possibly unique presentation of Levinson’s 1930 essay lauding the accomplishments of Craig, this typescript, including the original French text as well as a translation into English, appears to have been prepared for Craig himself, or at least at his behest. The wrappers are lettered in Craig’s hand. In addition, he has made a number of holographic notes at the end, identifying both the author and translation (“D.W.”) and adding: “Levinson writing to me soon after says ‘Lugne-Poe has written me a letter of hate.’” He also inserted a quote from Horace: “The limbs of the dismembered poet.” On the verso of the last leaf, Craig has begun a pencil list of names along with the designations “English” and / or “French” as if compiling a roster of recipients for this essay. A likely scenario was that Craig saw Levinson’s praise as an opportunity for publicity and wished to distribute the article to select recipients. In addition to the notes already described, Craig made a few small adjustments to the English text.
Edward Gordon Craig (1872-1966) was one of the most radical and influential forces on the stages of the world. His productions across Europe, inspirational designs, and prolific writings defined him as a leading modernist of 20th century theatre. Craig’s visions have invigorated generations of theatre-makers and continue to resonate and inspire today. Item #74070
Price: $500.00