Le Lézard et Le Page

Etching or eau-forte on archival paper with H.C. in pencil at lower left, indicating a Hors Commerce (Artist's/Publisher's Proof) including pencil signature that appears to read Jean Cocteau + a circular blind or ink stamp in the lower right with the mention JC & a handwritten "3" near the bottom center that is an inventory number.

Jean Cocteau (1889-1963) actively produced drawings, book illustrations, and portraits in 1936, such as his famous ink drawing Mas de Fourques or his Figura series. He was one of the most multi-talented artists of the 20th century. In addition to being a director, he was a poet, novelist, painter, playwright, set designer, and actor. He began writing at 10 and was a published poet by age 16. He collaborated with the Russian Ballet company of Sergei Diaghilev, and was active in many art movements, but always remained a poet at heart. His films reflect this fact. Cocteau was also a homosexual, and made no attempt to hide it. His favorite actor was his close friend Jean Marais, who appeared in almost every one of his films. Cocteau made about twelve films in his career, all rich with symbolism and surreal imagery. He is now regarded as one of the most important avant-garde directors in cinema.