FIRST EDITION OF THE EXHIBITION CATALOGUE FOR MAURICE SENDAK'S 1975 EXHIBITION AT THE ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM, INSCRIBED BY SENDAK IN THE YEAR OF PUBLICATION TO A NEIGHBOR FAMILY HE CONSIDERED CLOSE FRIENDS

(SENDAK, Maurice) ALDERSON, Brian, compiler. Catalogue for an Exhibition of Pictures by Maurice Sendak at the Ashmolean Museum Oxford. December 16 to February 29 1975-76. London: Bodley Head, (1975). Tall 12mo, staple-bound as issued, original printed pictorial yellow paper wrappers; pp. 48. $800.

First edition of the illustrated exhibition catalogue for the 1975 Sendak exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum Oxford, inscribed on the half title in the year of publication to a neighbor family Sendak considered close friends: "For the Grahams—for Christmas, affectionately, Maurice Sendak Dec. '75."

In 1975, the Ashmolean Museum—with the assistance of the Rosenbach and the Bodley Head—curated a comprehensive Maurice Sendak exhibition featuring his books, prints, and original drawings. This accompanying exhibition catalogue offers interesting commentary on the works displayed as well as in-text illustrations reproducing details from Sendak's work. Hanrahan A90. The former owner of this inscribed book was Maurice Sendak's neighbor, Andrew, from Ridgefield, Connecticut. Sendak bought a home and studio in Ridgefield in 1972 with his longtime partner, Eugene Glynn, and lived there until his death. Andrew first encountered Sendak in 1975 during one of his daily dog walks. (Sendak owned many dogs throughout his life, and they often starred in his books.) Andrew was immediately taken with Sendak, who reminded him of his recently deceased father. One day, Andrew called Sendak at home and asked if he could join him on his walks. Andrew and Sendak thus embarked on a 37-year friendship that also included the Andrew's mother, Betty, as well as Andrew's brother. Sendak went on long walks and hikes with Andrew and his family regularly, discussing general life events, opera, and books. He also invited them into his studio to show off works in progress. Andrew's mother, Betty, was an avid reader and collector and she and Sendak would talk late into the night about books. Sendak offered Betty advice about how to find and authenticate rare children's books, which she used to build her collection. Additionally, he frequently bartered for autographs (i.e. a cake for an inscribed drawing). The many inscribed drawings, along with first editions, signed books, and other valuable items grew into one of the country's premier Sendak collections.

Very nearly fine condition.