ARTHUR RACKHAM, (ENGLISH 1867-1939)

Arthur Rackham Superb Signed Final Published Detailed Pen and Ink Drawing, from “Candlelight”, Cassell’s Magazine interior illustration

This stunning final published drawing by Arthur Rackham is rendered in vibrant pen and ink with goache highlights. Signed by Arthur Rackham with his full name lower left “Arthur Rackham”. Sheet is tabbed to mount; light discoloration along right edge with vestiges of old tape at lower right edge; Sheet size 7″ x 11.25″, matted with green suede-like mat to a completed size of 18.5 x 13.5 inches. Not framed.

A superb depiction of an older balding man with hair in disarray, wearing his night clothes, walking barefoot- and holding a lite candle. He appears thoroughly surprised by a visit by a stern gent with a top hat. Arthur Rackham’s artistic skills shine with the most incredible use of pen and ink to make the floor, the mans clothes and the wall literally blend together with sweeping ink lines creating a unique effect. The entire scene is reminiscent of something one would see from Rackham’s Christmas Carol drawings, however this one has the original label from the The Fine Arts Society Gallery in London, (148 New Bond Street), with the story called “Candlelight’, and the note that it was in Cassell’s Magazine. The date of the exhibition (or perhaps it was in a show) of “September 1965”. The New Bond Street, London gallery closed its doors in August 2018 after being occupied by The Fine Art Society since February 1876, nearly 140 years, and was placed in a temporary location in Chelsea. The Fine Arts Society specialized in 19th and 20th century British art and design.

A large, bold, and vibrant piece with an incredible presentation!

Provenance: The art was acquired via the premier collectibles Auction house in the United States who vetted the piece, and the artwork still maintains the original historic gallery label from The Fine Arts Society Gallery in London. A copy of the invoice and lot description will accompany the artwork for provenance.

Rackham’s pieces were known for their luxurious use of color and keen attention to detail. His styles ranged easily from vivid, bright splashes of color to more muted, subtle tones. He became a member of the Royal Watercolour Society and mastered the watercolor method of painting, seen in many of his works. Many of the books Rackham illustrated include both his black and white, and color plates. Much of Rackham’s work depicts gnomes, fairies, goblins or other creatures from mythology, folklore or fable. Whether illustrating whimsical books for children or darker matter for adults, Rackham’s imaginative, brilliant illustration style was highly sought after and enhanced any text it accompanied. Rackham died in 1939, and now, more than 70 years after his death, his work is collectible and beloved.

Original published artwork by Arthur Rackham is extremely scarce. A very stunning piece which showcases very well.

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