231 - LABISSE (Félix). (Marchiennes, 1905 – Neuilly-sur-Seine, 1982). French surrealist painter, as well as theater set designer and illustrator.

LABISSE (Félix). (Marchiennes, 1905 – Neuilly-sur-Seine, 1982). French surrealist painter, as well as theater set designer and illustrator. Autographed postcard signed “F. Labisse” to an unidentified colleague and friend. No place, [late June 1981]. 1 page, in-12 format, in black ink, on the back of an illustrated postcard featuring a fantastical composition by the artist created for the 12th Sitges International Fantastic and Horror Film Festival (Spain), held October 6–13, 1979. An interesting piece of correspondence in which Félix Labisse mentions a text he is expecting from his correspondent and reproduces one of his most unique surrealist compositions. “I received your postcard dated June 23, 1981—I’m confident, but I’m a little worried. However, your two and a half lines give me hope that I’ll soon see this long-awaited text, which, alas, you yourself do not wish to read. Without expecting you to change your mind—I’m not giving up hope, though [...] We’re leaving on vacation on July 1. But I’ll be staying in Paris until the 15th. So you can reach me there...” The front of the card features a striking black, bulbous creature, bristling with slender legs, covered in eyes, and adorned with small red horns—a characteristic image from Félix Labisse’s fantastical and dreamlike universe. This composition was chosen to illustrate the 12th Sitges International Fantastic and Horror Film Festival in 1979. Close to surrealist circles, Félix Labisse developed a distinctive body of work populated by enigmatic female figures, metamorphoses, and fantastical creatures. He also worked in theater, opera, and film. A beautiful autographed postcard, particularly appealing for its color reproduction of one of the artist’s works, combining personal correspondence with surrealist iconography. A few slight signs of handling. Good overall condition.