“WHAT A TREAT TO HAVE A WHOLE PORTFOLIO OF GALLERY-QUALITY PRINTS”: COLLECTION OF 24 SENDAK POSTERS, SIGNED BY MAURICE SENDAK, FROM THE COLLECTION OF HIS CLOSE FRIEND AND NEIGHBOR

SENDAK, Maurice. Posters. New York: Harmony, (1986). Folio (10-1/2 by 14 inches), original pictorial paper wrappers. $2500.

First edition of this wonderful collection of Sendak’s “easy images,” signed on the title page by Maurice Sendak. From the collection of Sendak's close friend and neighbor.

This is a collection of 24 of Sendak's "favorite posters and pictures," with his introduction. "I have a disproportionate affection for these 'easy' images," he confesses. "Why 'easy'? They came easy. They were painted in rare moments of relaxation? Simply, they were fun to do." Hanrahan A126. The former owner of this signed 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, limited edition books, and other valuable items grew into one of the country's premier Sendak collections.

A few spots of foxing to preliminary and concluding pages. Near-fine condition.