An exceptional and RARE item. First edition, limited, and signed by the artist on the title page. Schiff drew the illustrations, then had the book printed in black-outline, after which he hand-colored each page and signed the original limited print run.

Illustrated by Title and 20 hand colored pages (30 separate illustrations, 13 captioned). Limited signed edition. "Of this book only a limited and numbered edition has been printed. Each book is hand-colored and signed by the Artist. This is book number 482".

****In addition, there are 13 index sized card illustrations on the reverse side of the boards. These may be hand drawn/painted as well – I have not been able to find another example that contains these cards (see photos). All other listings indicate the above mentioned illustrations, only.

Gold silk bamboo brocade, accordion fold (or concertina or zigzag fold) 4to (27x19.5cm). pp. 22 double leaves.

Overall condition is good; with noted toning to some cartoons, and foxing throughout. Some color fading along the edges of the boards. Colors still brilliant, several foxed spots to pages, some rubbing and scuffing to fabric folds, and edges, some browning on pages. Original owners name handwritten on front board (dated 1937-1939). An "oh mosaic" of 'Shanghailander' life observed by Jewish-Austrian cartoonist who lived and worked in the refuge of Shanghai 1930-47. World Catalog states 3 editions were published in 1940. This is equivalent to state A with the "Limited." statement and number on last page with last name signature on title. I have seen a copy 550, but exact numbers are unknown. A collection of his works was later published in Austria in 1983 as China gemalt - Chinesische Zeitgeschichte in Bildern Friedrich Schiff by Gerd Kaminski.

Any questions just ask. More than happy to provide additional photos on request. If you're outside the US and eBay's shipping quote is too high, message me and I'll see if I can find a better shipping rate.

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