6 - FÉNÉON (Félix).

FÉNÉON (Félix). The Impressionists in 1886. Paris: Publications de La Vogue, 1886. — In-8, 225 x 142: 42 pp., (3 ff.), printed cover. Brick-red Bradel-style half-cloth, smooth spine, untrimmed, cover intact (contemporary binding). A rare and sought-after first edition of one of the most important critical texts of the late 19th century—the only one published during the author’s lifetime—which exerted considerable influence in the world of art criticism. Considered the manifesto of Neo-Impressionism, this booklet brings together—in “substantially revised” form—the articles that appeared in *La Vogue* and, in part, in *L’Art moderne* of Brussels. The text is organized around the three art events of the spring and summer of 1886, each scrutinized by Félix Fénéon: the 8th and final Impressionist exhibition (May 15–June 15, Rue Laffitte); the 5th International Exhibition (June 15–July 15, Rue de Sèze); the 2nd Exhibition of the Society of Independent Artists (August 20–September 27, Rue des Tuileries). The author concludes his analysis with these words: “In 1886, all the masters of Impressionist art—with the exception of Messrs. Cézanne, Sisley, and Caillebotte—presented works that left the public utterly dumbfounded. A few young artists, notably Mr. Augrand, established their individual styles. With Messrs. Pissarro, Seurat, Dubois-Pillet, and Signac, a fruitful technical innovation took hold: this was indeed the great and novel appeal of the exhibitions on Rue Lafitte and Rue des Tuileries, with their bright galleries where, within white frames, the skies stretch endlessly and blaze. ” Limited edition of 227 copies; one of the 199 from Saint-Omer (no. 40). Very well-preserved copy.