Randolph Caldecott était un artiste talentueux respecté par ses contemporains. Il est surtout connu pour ses illustrations de livres, et son nom est donné à la prestigieuse Médaille Caldecott, décernée chaque année pour le livre d'images pour enfants américain le plus distingué.
'The very essence of all illustration for children's books' said The Times on
Christmas Eve, 1878, shortly after the publication of Caldecott's first two
picture books, or Toy Books as they were called, John Gilpin and The House
that Jack Built.
The poem offers a satirical take on British society through the story of a virtuous man who defies expectations by surviving a mad dog's bite, leading to the dog's demise instead. Dr. Oliver Goldsmith, renowned for his novel "The Vicar of Wakefield," explores themes of morality and perception among townspeople. This edition features illustrations by the celebrated Randolph Caldecott, enhancing the narrative with both color and black-and-white artwork, making it a visually engaging experience.
The book is a facsimile reprint of a scarce antiquarian work, preserving its historical significance despite potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages. It aims to protect and promote cultural literature by offering high-quality, affordable modern editions that remain true to the original text, ensuring accessibility for contemporary readers.
During his brief life, Randolph Caldecott emerged as a highly regarded illustrator, thriving amidst Victorian Aestheticism and industrialization. He drew inspiration from nature and the rural society of eighteenth-century England, skillfully translating observed scenes of people, animals, and daily life into drawings characterized by a masterful economy of line and exceptional color. His humor captured the folly and vanity of humanity, portrayed with both frankness and affection. Rodney Engen chronicles Caldecott's journey from his modest beginnings in a small village to his early career as a bank clerk, where his talent quickly attracted commissions from prominent periodicals such as the Graphic and Illustrated London News. Caldecott's most significant legacy lies in his celebrated series of children's Picture Books, which included beautifully illustrated nursery rhymes and stories, produced in collaboration with master engraver Edmund Evans. Notable titles like The House that Jack Built and John Gilpin debuted in 1878, marking the start of a prolific eight-year period that solidified his international acclaim and earned him the title "Lord of the Nursery." Engen presents a comprehensive selection of Caldecott's work, featuring both well-known illustrations and lesser-known oil paintings and sculptures, along with a complete catalog of his oeuvre. An authority on Victorian illustrators, Engen has also authored works on contem
First published in 1805, The Queen of Hearts is a beloved children's book that has been enjoyed by generations of readers. This charming tale features beautiful illustrations and a whimsical story that will capture the imaginations of children and adults alike.
A beloved classic of children's literature, this collection of nursery rhymes and illustrations by Randolph Caldecott is a must-have for any family library. With charming characters and delightful verse, these timeless poems are perfect for sharing with the little ones in your life.