Jeffrey Smart (deluxe edition with original signed etching)

By Peter Quartermaine; foreword by Germaine Greer. On the half title: A man is illogical on horseback; but in a satellite, surreal. South Yarra : Gryphon Books, 1983. Quarto, gilt-titled quarter morocco over grey linen, black buckram slipcase, pp 131; the deluxe edition, limited to 100 numbered copies signed by the artist on colophon at rear, with a limited edition colour etching ‘Man with Bouquet’ (240 x 195 mm) signed by Smart loosely enclosed at front. Illustrated throughout including a number of tipped-in colour plates. Designed by Richard Griffin, edited by Helen Williams. Original prospectus loosely enclosed.

A fine copy complete as issued, the book and etching with matching numbers 21/100.

Note : the most recent auction results for this etching are:

Menzies, Important Australian & International Art, Melbourne, 26/06/2024, Lot No. 93, $15,955

Bonhams, Important Australian Art, Sydney, 23/8/22, Lot No. 41, $12,300

Deutscher and Hackett, Modern + Contemporary Art, Melbourne, 14/09/2021, Lot No. 6, $11,659

Elder Fine Art, Australian & International Paintings, Adelaide, 23/08/2020, Lot No. 18, $9,512

The prospectus indicates the deluxe edition with etching was originally sold for $375 in 1983.