COCTEAU (Jean), LIFAR (Serge), and D'ASSAILLY (Gisèle). *Pre - Lot 53

COCTEAU (Jean), LIFAR (Serge), and D'ASSAILLY (Gisèle). *Prestige de la danse*. Paris: Charles Portal, 1953. COCTEAU (Jean), LIFAR (Serge), and D'ASSAILLY (Gisèle). *Prestige de la danse*. Square in-12 format (19.5 × 14 cm), paperback, illustrated and printed in black and red on a mounted cover, 157 pp. and [2] ff. Designed by Jean Guéritte, in collaboration with Monique Lancelot. Preface by Denise Beaupré. FIRST EDITION. One of 1,000 copies numbered on Bellegarde chiffon vellum, constituting—along with a few non-commercial copies—the entire print run of the first edition. This copy is No. 309. An important anthology devoted to French dance and ballet in the mid-20th century, featuring texts by Jean Cocteau, Serge Lifar, and Gisèle d’Assailly, as well as contributions and testimonials from numerous figures in the artistic and literary worlds. In particular, Serge Lifar elaborates on his conception of contemporary ballet, discussing the legacy of Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes and the need to revitalize French choreographic creation. The book is richly illustrated with black-and-white photographs—particularly of male and female dancers of the era—and drawings by Monique Lancelot. The specialized bibliography lists 15 photographs by Fred Brommet, as well as Lancelot’s drawings. It offers a comprehensive overview of postwar French dance, featuring notably Yvette Chauviré, Lycette Darsonval, Nina Vyroubova, Rosella Hightower, and Serge Lifar. The collection serves as both an aesthetic manifesto and a valuable documentary record of the golden age of Parisian ballet. Copy preserved in its original binding. Cover slightly discolored and pitted, more so on the spine and margins; a few minor signs of wear; interior fresh overall. Complete and well-preserved copy.