f - Rackham, Arthur.

242 by 186mm., ink and watercolour drawing, signed "A. Rackham" in lower left corner, framed and glazed

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This fine watercolour was developed by the artist from his original ink drawing for the title-page of Little Brother & Little Sister and other tales by the Brothers Grimm, first published by Constable in 1917.

The title-page shows Little Brother seated in the arms of a sinister tree and Little Sister in a similar tree with spectacles. The title was printed in the book wihtin a white space above the faces of the trees. Here the trees are complete with additional twigs and leaves. Rackham has also added a mountain range in the background and grass in the foreground. A cloudy sky contributes depth to an extremely fine watercolour, hitherto unknown in this completed and coloured state.