"King Cole"

Walter Crane (English 1830-1899) is renowned as the first artist/draughtsman to successfully design well drawn and color printed books for children.  Crane's illustrating career began in 1863 when he was commissioned to illustrate three toy books for Warne publishers.  Crane was also a painter, writer and designer of textiles, wallpaper and ceramics.  His work was characterized by strong outlines, flat tints and solid blacks and was influenced by his study of early printed books, medieval illuminations,Japanese prints and the works of the Pre-Raphaelites.  Crane was converted to "conscious" socialism by William Morris and became a primary figure in the Arts and Crafts movement.  This illustration was originally included in his Baby's Opera, A Book of Old Rhymes with New Dresses.

7 x 7 1/4 inches sheet.  Color printed wood engraving. Excellent condition.