Vaillat, Léandre Olga Spessivtzeva: Ballerine en marge des ballets russes et des ballets de l'Opéra de Paris.

Illustrated with six gouaches by Bouchène engraved on wood by Poilliot.

Paris, Compagnie française des arts graphiques, 1944.
8vo, 90, [2] pp., ill.

In original wrappers and slipcase. Limitation slip is laid in.
In good condition, slipcase rubbed and soiled.

No 131 of 473 numbered copies on Arches vellum.

This exquisite book by the renowned dance and art critic Léandre Vaillat (1878–1952) celebrates Olga Spessivtseva (1895–1991), one of the most remarkable prima ballerinas of the twentieth century. It is beautifully illustrated with works by the prominent Russian-born French artist Dimitri Bouchène (1893–1993). Bouchène, a theater artist, scenographer, and haute couture designer, collaborated with some of the most influential choreographers of his time, including George Balanchine, Michel Fokine, Léonide Massine, Kurt Jooss, Roland Petit, and especially Serge Lifar.