LEONARD TSUGUHARU FOUJITA (1886-1968), TWISTING CAT, FROM LES CHATSJapan, c. 1930Chat couché, from Les Chats Catalog Raisonné Buisson 29.200.1Etching and aquatint printed in colors, circa 1930, chine appliqué to japan support, signed and numbered 78/100 in pencil, published by Les Editions Artistiques Apollo, Paris, with full margins.Foujita had a great fondness for cats and often included them in his paintings. In fact, he is sometimes referred to as the "Cat Painter" and is credited with popularizing the idea of the "artist and cat" archetype. This edition of "Les Chats" is a testament to Foujita's love of felines and features his unique style that blends elements of traditional Japanese art with Western modernism.SIZE of the sheet 44.8 x 51.9 cmCondition: Well-preserved with detailed impression and great colors. Slight signs of wear commensurate with age, minor browning, and few small holes at the margin.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.Leonard Tsuguharu Foujita (1886-1968) was a celebrated Japanese-French painter known for his unique blend of traditional Japanese art and Western modernism. His works featured bold outlines, flat colors, and strong design, often depicting portraits of women, cats, and scenes from everyday life. Foujita was an active member of the School of Paris, a group of international artists who converged in Paris in the early 20th century. His close friendships with prominent artists, including Modigliani and Picasso, contributed to the development of modern art movements in France and beyond.Auction comparison:Compare with another edition (81/100) of this etching sold at Bonhams, Prints & Multiples, 16 November 2016, London, Lot 21AR (sold for 16,250 GBP).