205 pp. Cloth-bound hardcover. The Library of Great Art Movements illustrated book on Impressionism, signed and inscribed to the legendary American designer on the front endpaper by Halston's romantic partner, the artist and window dresser Victor Hugo, who has written, "To Lindo! Lindo! 73 Jan / Victor Hugo." Mild toning to pages throughout; overall in fine condition. 10 x 13 x 1.25 inches (25.4 x 33 x 3.2 cm.). From the Collection of Halston.

Victor Hugo, born Victor Rojas in Caracas, came to New York City from Venezuela and met Halston through an escort service, according to Steven Gaines, author of Simply Halston: The Untold Story. The couple quickly started a romantic relationship and Hugo moved in with the designer. Halston offered Hugo a position at his company, and the artist soon started designing the windows at Halston’s New York City boutique. He became close with Andy Warhol and started working as one of the artist’s assistants at The Factory. Warhol was attracted to Hugo’s eccentric personality, and Hugo eventually became one of the artist’s muses and models. According to Interview, Hugo also worked as a “quasi-editor” at the magazine, which was founded by Warhol. Warhol and Halston had a friendly rivalry in the 1970s and the artist often leveraged Halston’s close relationship with Hugo to embarrass the designer publicly.

Halston and Hugo’s relationship came to an end when Halston was fired from his own company in 1984 and relocated to San Francisco. Many close to Halston blamed Hugo for encouraging the drug and party habits that ultimately led to the designer being ousted. According to Gaines, Hugo often used Halston for his money and stole pieces from the designer’s home, like a sterling silver candlestick set designed by Peretti. He also accused Hugo of continuing to take advantage of Halston after the designer’s death. (Women's Wear Daily)