Lettres Portugaises.

1946. MATISSE, Henri. Lettres Portugaises. By Marianna Alcaforado. Illustrated with 15 full-page and 80 smaller lithographs by Matisse. 4to., loose as issued in the original publisher's illustrated wrappers and cardboard box. Paris: Teriade, 1946. An immaculate copy of Matisse's first collaboration with Teriade. Unlike Jazz, which he was working on at the same time, this work showcases Matisse's brilliance as a draughtsman. The plethora of images and the use of purple ink combine to make this a particularly pleasing book. The author Mariana Alcoforado was a Portuguese nun who conducted a passionate, clandestine affair with a French soldier, documented in these letters. The letters articulate the arching trajectory of her love, from passion to eventual heartbreak. Whether or not these letters were actually written by Marianna Alcaforado is still a subject for debate. This is one of 20 hors commerce copies, published in addition to the 270 copies, signed by Matisse. Duthuit, Matisse Livres Illustres 15. The Artist and the Book 199.