Paris, Librairie Central des Beaux Arts, 1901. Folio (46 x 33 cm). Original print.

A fine print from Alphonse Mucha's quintessential Art Nouveau book, Documents décoratifs. Alfons "Alphonse" Maria Mucha (1860-1939) was a Czech decorative artist, who wanted to bring aesthetic values into arts and crafts. He invented the "Mucha Style" which soon became known as Art Nouveau. His work immediately became immensely popular and has remained very sought-after. This plate shows examples of how to apply his new, highly decorative style in books - hence the black and white printing. Edges with minimal wear, otherwise fine. Very rare, especially in this excellent state. Not in Schneider-Henn (apparently due to its rarity).