This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/3/2023
Limited Edition Boxset by Andy and Julia Warhol
Books: 2 ("25 Cats" / "Holy Cats")
Dimensions: H 9.5 x W 6.25 x D 1 Inches (24.13 x 15.875 x 2.54 cm)
Condition: Excellent; both vintage books and the box which contains them show signs of age but are in otherwise nearly new condition.
Panache publishing house produced this special box set edition of "25 Cats" and "Holy Cats" in 1987, the year of Warhol's death.
Printed by the Andy Warhol Estate, this limited box set is the compilation of Warhol's "25 Cats name Sam and one blue pussy” and his mother's "Holy Cats". The Warhols self-published "25 Cats" illustrated by Andy with text/calligraphy from his mother in 1954. The book comprises a list of cats painted in watercolour with signature blotted lines and vibrant pop art colours. The cats, 18, despite the title, each have a page with a colour lithographic print. There were only 190 copies in 1954 until this facsimile boxset edition.
The incorrect grammar within the title was a mistake by Warhol's mother, who did the calligraphy. However, Warhol wanted to keep this as part of the contemporary "edge" his art became famous for later in his career.
The second book, "Holy Cats", is written and illustrated entirely by Warhol's mother, Julia Warhola, who shared Andy's love for cats.
Julia and Andy filled their New York City apartment with cats, and Julia had a favourite, Hester. "Holy Cats" is an artistic interpretation of a eulogy to Julia's beloved cat, Hester, and complements its partner in the boxset - "25 Cats".
The eulogy, although for Hester, partnered with one of Warhol's earliest works, creates another symbolic meaning beyond the artists' original intention. This limited edition set was published after Warhol's death, making the two books a homage to the late artist's career and love for his mother. This limited piece of memorabilia encapsulates their beautiful relationship.
Comes with a Gotta Have It Certificate of Authenticity