Published by Pierre Argillet between 1967 and 1971, the 33 original intaglio prints presented here are part of " The Songs of Maldoror " and erotic series.

The German-born surrealist artist, Hans Bellmer lived in France from 1938 until his death in 1975. He is essentially the poet of an obsessional erotic and fetishist magic. Bellmer is also one of the most peculiar etchers: his inventive work is highlighted by a technique of up and downstrokes lines that produce a vibrant drawing.

Entirely feminine in its depicted materials and iconography ", the art of Bellmer " is nevertheless not about women, woman, or a woman, not even about the historical construction of femininity, although such readings are possible. It is instead about masculine anxieties inspired by the female sex and its perceived lack " notes Sue Taylor in her remarkable study: " Hans Bellmer, the anatomy of anxiety " (2000).

This collection of original etchings by Hans Bellmer and photos taken in the artist's studio by Pierre Argillet is shown in Los Angeles for the first time. The exhibition will take place in the Christine Argillet Gallery, from February 3rd, to March 10th 2001.