August 2020 Catalogue

A u g u s t 2 0 2 0 43 The First Of Rackham’s Deluxe Signed Limited Editions, Rip Van Winkle , Beautifully Bound 41. (RACKHAM, Arthur) IRVING, Washington. Rip Van Winkle. London, 1905. Quarto, later full red pictorial morocco gilt. $7800. Click for more info Deluxe signed limited first edition, one of only 250 copies signed by Rackham, one of the smallest limitations for a Rackham title and “the first book illustrated wholly by Rackham to be issued in a limited edition” (Riall), with 51 full-color mounted plates by Rackham, beautifully bound by Bayntun-Riviere in elaborate full morocco-gilt with a pictorial onlay depicting Rip Van Winkle. One of the most scarce and desirable Rackham titles. “ Rip Van Winkle of 1905 was a turning point in Rackham’s career because of its 51 color plates. Known previously as a black-and- whiteartist,Rackhamwiththisbookachieved preeminence as an illustrator working in the three-color process… Rackham’s Rip Van Winkle is among the most thoroughly illustrated of English books” (Ray, 203-04). A beautifully bound copy in fine condition.