Kokoschka was born in Austria and later, after moving to England, became a British citizen. Not only a successful
artist, he was also a highly-regarded poet and playwright. Die Träumenden Knaben was issued in two editions, bound in gray cloth covers tied with string and black or red labels affixed identifying the editions. The bright, colorful lithographs are in Wiener Werkstätte style and the book is dedicated to Gustav Klimt.
Artists in neighboring countries created outstanding Modern Illustrated Books. In Switzerland, Hans Arp and
Paul Klee; in Germany, many Expressionists with perhaps Ernst Ludwig Kirchner's Umbra Vitae (woodcuts) by
Stefan Heym the most important; in Italy, the most famous book is Calligrammes by Giorgio
De Chirico and poetry by Apollinaire; in Russia, Constructionist and Futurist artists created many books, none
reaching truly artistic heights, but some containing interesting and influential typographic design. Wasily
Kandinsky, born in Russia and most active in Germany, must be singled out. In an edition of 300 copies, Klänge with poetry and color woodcuts by the artist is one of the great Modern Illustrated Books.
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