PAULHAN (Jean). - Lot 182

PAULHAN (Jean). Jacob Cow the Pirate, or If Words Are Signs. Paris: Au Sans Pareil, 1921. — In-16, 143 x 116: 61 pp., (1 f.), illustrated cover. Paperback. First edition of this essay on language and words. In it, Paulhan examines how words function as signs, conveying meaning but also harboring pitfalls and ambiguities. This text builds on his work on the Malagasy “hain-teny,” in which he had already studied the power of proverbs and linguistic formulas. Limited edition of 550 copies. This one is among the 500 printed on Lafuma vellum (no. 47). A copy belonging to the poet Jean Royère (1871–1955), featuring this autographed dedication on the first blank page: To Mr. Jean Royère // with gratitude and // admiration from // Jean Paulhan A small water stain at the top of the cover; some soiling. Interior in perfect condition. Also included, by the same author: - *Le Repas et l’amour chez les Mérinas*. [Montpellier]: Fata Morgana, [1970]. — In-8, loose-leaf, bound cover. Posthumous first edition, illustrated with 6 drawings by Bernard DUFOUR, reproduced in black on full pages. “This text, found as a manuscript among the papers left by Jean Paulhan and unpublished to this day, was undoubtedly written after his return from Madagascar in 1912 or 1913” (colophon). Limited edition of 550 copies. One of the 50 first-edition copies printed on Arches paper, featuring an original engraving signed by the artist. Very well-preserved copy.