The Alphabet and Numerals Portfolio Suites demonstrate Erté’s remarkable ability to transform typography into figurative art. Each character becomes an individual composition in which the human form, costume, symbolism, and decorative line are integrated with the structure of a letter or numeral.
 

Created during the renewed international appreciation of Erté’s work, the suites bridge his achievements in illustration and graphic design with the three-dimensional sculptures that defined his final creative period.
 

Preserved as complete European editions, unframed and accompanied by their original portfolio cases and cover sheets, the suites retain their integrity as unified works. They offer important opportunities to study typography, fashion, symbolism, graphic design, and Art Deco's continuing influence.