Rip Van Winkle by Washington Irving and Illustrated by Arthur Rackham

This is the first US edition. It is a quarto size and is bound in green cloth with a gold embossed representation of Rip Van Winkle and text on the front board and text on the spine. The book is protected by a clear plastic covering. A protective paper overleaf contains text pertinent to the illustration. The book text pages and illustrations are in excellent condition. There is minimal rubbing of the binding edges.

Arthur Rackham (1867–1939) was a famous and beloved British illustrator renowned for his distinctive and enchanting illustrations that brought to life the realms of fantasy and folklore. Born in London, Rackham began his career as a commercial artist, but his talent soon drew attention to his unique style, which melded intricate line work with imaginative, dreamlike colors. Rackham's work is characterized by its intricate detail, whimsical figures, and a distinctive use of color and shadow that evokes a sense of mystery and wonder. He gained widespread acclaim for his illustrations in classic fairy tales and children's literature, including works such as Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, and Grimm's Fairy Tales. His ability to capture the essence of these stories with both haunting and charming visuals made his illustrations a beloved part of literary history. Rackham's illustrations often feature ethereal, otherworldly creatures and settings that transport readers to magical realms. His style reflects influences from the Pre-Raphaelite movement and the Arts and Crafts movement, but with a unique twist that made his work stand out in the world of illustration. Throughout his career, Rackham's contributions to book illustration were highly regarded, earning him a place among the great illustrators of his time. His legacy continues to influence and inspire illustrators and artists, and his works remain treasured for their beauty and imaginative depth.

Reference: Latecomer and Haskell, 26