The Night Before Christmas
Harrap, 1931.
First Rackham edition. 8vo. Original pictorial wrappers, illustrated in red, green and purple, with matching design on the dustwrapper. This copy is a presentation copy, which has an extra leaf, is thought to be commissioned directly from the publishers. Lettered in the same font as the book's titles and decorated with Rackham's holly design all printed in the same red as the endpapers, the leaf is tipped in to the the front of the book. The text reads, "A Merry Christmas from Mr. and Mrs. John Barry Ryan, Christmas 1931". Endpapers illustrated with red silhouette drawings. Four superb and warm colour plates. As well as a line or silhouette drawing to each page. A fine copy in a fine dustwrapper.
A scarce and uncommon book, which is a real pleasure. A book which must have been loved by children as they eagerly awaited the arrival of this cheerful St. Nick.
PROVENANCE: Mr and Mrs John Barry Ryan were art lovers who built a large collection of art, this looks to have been a very specially commissioned Christmas gift.
Stock ID: 40615
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