This enchanting pair of original hand-painted watercolours by artist and illustrator Alma Dowle captures the charm and whimsy of classic children’s storybook illustration. Dowle illustrated books for Oliver Eade including Moon Rabbit, for which these paintings may have been done. They are both labelled, see below. They are delightful whimsical decorative illustrative art perfect for a Nursery, Playroom or Children's bedroom. In excellent condition, signed, labelled and framed - ready to hang. Two wonderful original plates for the publication of this award winning novel.
These paintings are titled "Stevie and Maisie on the riverbank watching duckings" - plate 2, and "Flying on the White Crane to Shandong" - plate 4. Both show wonderful imagination and delight perfect for childrens' stories. The first painting shows two curious children peeking out from tall grasses at the edge of a pond, their faces bright with wonder as they explore a secret corner of nature. Rendered in soft washes of green and blue, it conveys the innocence and curiosity of childhood.
The second painting sweeps the viewer into the realm of fairy tales, depicting a child in a flowing red cloak riding gracefully upon a giant white swan. The figure soars across a sky of deep blues with mountains beneath, evoking adventure and magic in equal measure.
Both watercolours are painted with lively ink outlines and bold washes, a style reminiscent of European children’s book art from the 1970s–1980s. These are however for the original 2009 edition of Eade's book.
The pieces are presented in matching light wood frames with cream mounts, which brighten the compositions and are ready for display. Condition is very good: the colours remain vibrant, the paper shows only minimal age-related toning, and the frames have only light signs of wear.
These paintings would be a perfect addition for collectors of storybook illustration, fairy tale art, and vintage children’s watercolours, or for anyone wishing to add a touch of magic and nostalgia to a nursery, playroom, or gallery wall. A charming and imaginative duo of unsigned original fairy tale illustrations, ready to bring wonder and nostalgia to any home. Pieces of illustrative and writing history.
Dimensions : frame approx 35cm w x 44cm, aperture 29cm x 20cm approx
