Albert Robida (French, 1848-1926) Naissance de Sulfatin- Birth of Sulfatin, book and magazine interior, 1891 Ink on paper 2-3/4 x 4 inches (7.0 x 10.2 cm) (image) Initialed lower left The present work is the frontispiece for La Vie Électrique (The Electric Life) by Albert Robida (Librairie Illustrée, 1893). This work is a rare piece of original art featured not only as the frontispiece for La Vie Électrique but, also in Chapter 5 which first appeared in the December 26, 1891, issue of La Science Illustrée (Volume 9, Issue 213). Both written and illustrated by Robida the work was serialized in La Science Illustrée from November 28, 1891, to July 30, 1892, and published as a book in 1892 (though sometimes referenced as 1890). Born in 1848 in France and passing away in 1926, Albert Robida was a visionary illustrator, etcher, lithographer, caricaturist, and novelist often considered the father of science fiction art. His notable works include the futuristic trilogy: Le Vingtième Siècle (1883), La Guerre au Vingtième Siècle (1887), and La Vie Électrique (1892). Robida's visions of the future encompassed advanced telecommunications, including telephones and televisions (the "telephonoscope"), as well as predictions on societal changes such as the empowerment of women, test-tube babies, technological advancements like submarines and helicopters, and concerns over environmental pollution from industrialization. Robida's foresight in depicting future scenarios remains unmatched in the 19th century. HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved