A doctor’s bookplate from 1910

In the decade from 1910, Sassy was experimenting with many artistic forms, including printmaking, and like many artists of the period he was also fascinated by the growing acceptance of sexual themes in art and literature.

This portfolio of prints, titled A Szatír Álmai (A Satyr’s Dreams) after the title given to some of the drawings by Budapest galleries selling Sassy’s prints, shows him at the height of his printmaking skills, as a skilled life artist, and also as a keen observer of sexual interactions and their absurdities. As well as a well-toned satyr having his way with seemingly willing partners, the sexual choice in ‘Justitia’ and the woman holding a hidden man’s erection while kissing another are witty and thought-provoking images.


We are very grateful to Hans-Jürgen Döpp for these images; Hans-Jürgen, the compiler of many books on erotic art, curates the Venusberg online gallery and bookshop which you can find here.