The Golden Basket

Ludwig Bemelmans. First edition, first printing. NAP.  New York: The Viking Press, 1936. Both unclipped dust jacket, in a mylar wrapper, and hardcover are in Very Good+ condition. No writing or markings found in the book, 96 pp. 

A lovely copy of Bemelmans’ second book, introducing the character who would become Madeline. First edition, first printing, with “First Published September 1936” on copyright page.

Bound in original publisher’s cloth. The dust jacket is unclipped with the original $2.00 price present. Jacket shows only modest edgewear and rubbing, but retains its full wraparound color illustration — a striking survival.

Book is tight and clean, with vibrant internal illustrations. A collectible example of a scarce early Bemelmans title.

The dust jacket artwork was designed and illustrated by Ludwig Bemelmans himself. Like most of his early work, The Golden Basket features his own whimsical and moody line-and-wash illustrations, both inside and out. His style — naive yet sophisticated — helped shape the aesthetic of mid-20th-century children’s literature.

• Very good overall. Some edge wear and light chipping at spine ends and corners, but vibrant color and full wraparound art intact.
• Appears VG+ to Near Fine — clean pages, strong binding, no visible writing or staining.
• “First Published September 1936” with no mention of later printings.