λMichael Ayrton (British 1921-1975) Illustrations for Femmes Hombres by Paul Verlaine 15 etchings, 1971, edition B, signed and lettered on the frontispiece bound in original portfolio; with an additional portfolio, as published, containing an original pencil drawing, signed lower left and dated 12.10.69 lower right, 25.5 x 34.5cm (10 x 13 1/2in.); a set of signed preliminary proofs on japon (including proofs of two discarded plates) and a set of signed prints on hand-made paper, all contained in original slip case (Qty) Overall 33.5 x 43.5cm (13 1/4 x 17 1/4in.) Paul Verlaine (1844-1896) composed the erotic verses Femmes/Hombres in 1890/91 based on his experiences, especially his affair in 1870/71 with the young Arthur Rimbaud. The verses were not well received at the time of publication in 1903, after Verlaine's death. Provenance: Sale, Bonhams, 22nd June 1992, Lot 51 Acquired from the above by the present ownerλ Indicates that this lot may be subject to Droit de Suite royalty charges. Please see our Terms & Conditions for more information.