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Offered is a rare original 1946 French promotional publication for Jean Cocteau’s classic film La Belle et la Bête (Beauty and the Beast), produced by DisCina and illustrated by renowned French artist and designer Christian Bérard.
This is not a modern reproduction or later reprint. It is the original 1946-era promotional booklet associated with the theatrical release of the film.
The publication features numerous photographs and illustrations related to the production, along with information about the film, its cast and creative team. The cover and interior prominently feature the distinctive artwork associated with Christian Bérard and the film.
The film was directed by Jean Cocteau and starred Jean Marais as the Beast/Avenant/the Prince and Josette Day as Belle. Christian Bérard served as artistic director, contributing substantially to the film’s distinctive visual style. René Clément was the film’s technical adviser.
SIGNATURES
This particular example contains two handwritten signatures/autographs inside the publication.
One signature appears to be that of French film director René Clément, who was involved with the production of La Belle et la Bête as technical adviser.
The second signature has not been definitively identified and is being offered as photographed. I have not had the signatures professionally authenticated, so prospective buyers should examine the photographs carefully.
CONDITION
This is an original vintage 1946 publication and shows substantial age and handling wear.
The black outer cover has:
* Significant surface wear
* Staining/discoloration
* Edge wear and tears
* Wear around the corners and edges
* Areas of deterioration to the cover
* General signs of age consistent with an approximately 80-year-old paper publication
The interior pages show age-related yellowing/discoloration and some handling wear. Please examine all photographs carefully, as the photographs are considered part of the description.
Despite the condition, the publication remains an unusually interesting surviving piece of the history of one of Jean Cocteau’s most famous films.
A fascinating collectible for collectors of Jean Cocteau, French cinema, vintage film memorabilia, Christian Bérard, René Clément, Jean Marais, or early Beauty and the Beast material.
