Description
MICHAUX (Henri).
Through the Path of Rhythms.
[Montpellier]: Fata Morgana, [1974]. — In-4, 325 x 251: (56 ff.), illustrated cover. Loose-leaf, pasted cover, publisher’s slipcase.
First edition of this unique, exclusively visual work, comprising 79 pages featuring black-pen drawings by Henri Michaux. These drawings are organised into five movements, each introduced by a chapter title that is itself a drawing.
In total, including the cover and table of contents, the volume contains 87 reproductions of drawings.
Limited edition of 2,000 copies.
This copy (no. 18) is one of the 80 numbered first-edition copies on Arches vellum, accompanied by a set of 12 original lithographs made by transfer onto zinc (380 x 325 mm), printed on the same paper, full-size and signed by Michaux.
It is also one of the first 20 copies enhanced with a second set of the same 12 lithographs and three additional plates, printed on pearlescent Japon paper, justified and signed by the artist.
Michaux is known for his unique visual and literary style, inspired by diverse cultures, including Africa. His graphic work (drawings, ink drawings) and his writings reflect a search for universal forms, at times verging on abstract or symbolic art, which may recall certain African aesthetics. However, this is not a direct influence but rather a shared sensitivity towards non-figurative artistic expressions rich in meaning. Some drawings, however, depict exotic animals; notably, the suite includes a depiction of a crocodile that refers directly to the African continent.
A very well-preserved copy. Only one plate in the series on vellum and two in the series on pearlescent Japanese paper are unsigned.
See original version (French)
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About the sale
Claude Mozis Library – Black Africa and the African diaspora
Auction location
Auction time
10/21/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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