Histoire Naturelle

Prominent surrealist and Dada artist Ernst developed the “frottage” technique to explore a subconscious form of representation, taking rubbings on paper against rough surfaces such a wooden floorboards, stone or even crusts of bread in an automotive manner, then developing the captured textural pattern into fuller, mostly subtly surreal figural, schematic or geographic images. The 23 collotypes in this portfolio were first executed in simple charcoal, the reproductions transferred to firmly fix the depth of detail in which Ernst discovered his objects. 1926; 23 collotypes in a portfolio; Signed and numbered 199/300; 19 1/2" x 12 5/8" (sheet, each); Provenance: Collection of Lydia Winston Malbin; By descent to present owner