Love is Hell

GROENING, Matt (b.1954). Love is Hell. [Los Angeles: Matt Groening and Deborah Caplan, December 1984.] Signed copy of Matt Groening's first book, self-published in Los Angeles. Inscribed on the inside front cover in red pen: "Matt Groening / 1ST BOOK I EVER AUTOGRAPHED 12/6/84". "This giant-size ultra-jumbo book contains dozens of authentic, enlightening cartoons— all in vivid black and white " (cover blurb). Love is Hell is the first book by Matt Groening and the earliest published collection of his "Life in Hell" comics, which he began drawing in 1977. The book was self-published in Los Angeles with his then-girlfriend Deborah Caplan and precedes Groening’s later work for television, including The Simpsons . At the time of publication, "Life in Hell" circulated primarily through alternative magazines and underground outlets. This copy was acquired directly from the artist. The original purchaser responded to an advertisement in the L.A. Reader , ordered the book by mail, and requested an autograph. Groening obliged and also included a bonus inscription noting it as the first book he had ever autographed, with the date 6 December 1984.The present lot also includes an original promotional flyer for Love is Hell , postmarked 24 November 1984. Quarto (304 x 304mm). Original printed wrappers (worn, small hole to right edge and backstrip started).

Estimate:$2,000

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