Ben Vautier, large collection of documents sent to Francois De Dio

founder of the legendary publishing house Editions Soleil Noir in Paris. Between 1950 and 1983 it published numerous surrealist, poetry and art related works as well as book objects. The collection consists of 3 portfolios filled with letters, postcards, announcement cards and flyers, text scores and other documents mailed by Vautier to De Dio mostly between 1966 and 1969, with some in the early 1970s. Various items are housed in Ben's signature 'Ben Doute de Tout' red envelopes with rubberstamped addresses.

Comprised are some original collaged works such as a mounted nail accompanied by text stating 'Plant this nail in a wall so as to be able to hang a painting on it; but don't hang anything.' Ben, 18 September 1966. Also included are several small magazines, such as the textscroll Open Tout and close Nothing, Merino donne carte blanche à Ben, 1968. There are ca. 50 items, often consisting of an envelope and multiple sheets. A full list of this impressive lot is available.