PBA Galleries

[8] text leaves. 25 woodcuts, printed in black, colors and gilt, each set into paper matting. (Folio) 51x33 cm (20x13"), loose in burgundy cloth portfolio, as issued, title in gilt on cover. Copy 5 of 30, each print titled, signed, and numbered in pencil.

Printed by Davies between 1962 and 1967. A series of 25 woodcuts, each corresponding to the top 6 cards (9 to Ace) in the 4 suits of a deck of cards plus a Joker (a self portrait). The illustrations surrounding the suit and number reflect the characteristics of an economic institution or class viewed through the lens of Davies' political beliefs. The suit of diamonds representing Wealth with images of The Government, The Corporation, The Laborer; Clubs representing Ambition, including The Ballerina, The Football Player, Learning; Hearts representing Love including The Great Lover, The Family, Sex; Spades representing Death including War, Disease, Old Age. Rare.