C h i l d r e n ’ s L i t e r a t u r e 40 The First Of Rackham’s Deluxe Signed Limited Editions, Rip Van Winkle, A Beautiful Copy 45. (RACKHAM, Arthur) IRVING, Washington. Rip Van Winkle. London, 1905. Quarto, original full pictorial vellum gilt, custom slipcase. $12,000. 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. 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-white artist, Rackham with this book achieved preeminence as an illustrator working in the threecolor process… Rackham’s Rip Van Winkle is among the most thoroughly illustrated of English books… presenting Rip’s story in the most ingenious and engaging detail” (Ray, 203-04). Latimore & Haskell, 26. Bookplate; letters from a Rackham collector to a book dealer laid in. A beautiful copy in fine condition. CHILDREN’S LITERATURE
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDg3OTM=