AGÉLOU (Jean). — From Academic Art to Artistic Photography. - Lot 6

AGÉLOU (Jean). — From Academic Art to Artistic Photography. Text by Christian Bourdon. Collections of Christian Bourdon and Jean-Pierre Bourgeron. [Paris], Marval, [2006]. Large quarto, publisher’s hardcover with illustrated photographic dust jacket. A major monograph devoted to Jean Agélou (1878–1921), one of the leading French photographers of nudes and erotic imagery in the early 20th century. At a time when erotic photography was experiencing considerable growth in France, Agélou produced and sold, under the guise of anonymity, a vast number of photographs and postcards featuring female nudes. Gradually moving away from the academic poses inherited from the 19th century, he developed a freer and more sensual style of photography, which enjoyed widespread circulation before and during World War I. The book reproduces a very extensive collection of photographs from the collections of Christian Bourdon and Jean-Pierre Bourgeron, including numerous nudes of Fernande, Agélou’s favorite model and an iconic figure in his work. Extensive illustrations, primarily in sepia and black-and-white, featuring photographs, postcards, and studio compositions. A reference work on Agélou and, more broadly, on the early days of French erotic photography. ISBN 978-2-86234-394-5. Good copy. Interior in very fresh condition. Dust jacket intact, with some rubbing, small marks, and slight marginal wear.