Van Dyck

vi, pp 1-83 [1] A monograph on the Dutch old master Van Dyck with an interesting gift inscription by the early twentieth century artist Jacob Kramer. Using black ink Kramer has written on the half-title, 'August 1917 To Roger and Alfred With Best Wishes and Good luck from Jacob Kramer'. The inscription dates from the period when Kramer was at the height of his creative powers, living in London and mixing with the leading lights of English modernism. It's not been possible to identify who 'Roger and Alfred' might be - one candidate is Roger Fry who taught Kramer at the Slade. The reference to 'good luck' raises the possibility that this was a gift to someone on their way to the trenches of the First World War. The book is near Fine with only the most minor wear. Kramer's signature is uncommon - and the association with the work of Van Dyck makes this a particularly intriguing example. (C3)