A Christmas Carol

This luxury collectors edition of Charles Dickens's perennial seasonal favorite features Arthur Rackham's color wash drawings and silhouettes, which bring a threatening and haunting atmosphere to Scrooge's story. Rackham was a leading illustrator in the golden age of book illustration, and his illustrations helped to consolidate the idea of the Dickensian Christmas and the tradition of the Christmas gift book.

Format: Hardback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Bodleian Library

This exquisite luxury collectors edition of Charles Dickens' perennial seasonal favourite features stunning illustrations by Arthur Rackham. Rackham's colour wash drawings and silhouettes, originally published during the First World War, add a haunting and menacing atmosphere to Scrooge's story, which contrasts beautifully with the festive gifts and games at Belle's household. Rackham was a renowned illustrator during the golden age of book illustration, when groundbreaking techniques for colour printing were emerging rapidly. He illustrated over sixty books, specialising in children's classics and fairy tales. This landmark edition played a significant role in consolidating the idea of the Dickensian Christmas and the tradition of the Christmas gift book. It is a beautiful rendition of a timeless classic that remains relevant to our times.

Marleys Ghost:
The iconic image of Marley's ghost, hovering over Ebenezer Scrooge's bed, is brought to life with exquisite detail in this edition. Rackham's portrayal of the spectral figure adds a sense of foreboding and suspense to the story, enhancing the emotional impact of Scrooge's transformation.

Bob Cratchits Slide Down Icy Cornhill:
Rackham's illustrations of Bob Cratchit's daring slide down the icy Cornhill are both thrilling and heartwarming. The sense of danger and exhilaration conveyed through his drawings adds to the festive spirit of the story.

Mr and Mrs Fezziwigs Dance:
The lively and joyous dance scene between Mr and Mrs Fezziwigs is captured with infectious energy by Rackham. His depiction of the couple's twirling and dipping adds to the festive atmosphere and reinforces the warmth and generosity of the Christmas season.

Ebenezer Scrooge Himself:
Rackham's portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge is both menacing and sympathetic. His facial expressions and body language convey Scrooge's inner conflict and eventual redemption, making him a memorable and compelling character in the story.

Arthur Rackham's Legacy:
Arthur Rackham was a master illustrator during the golden age of book illustration. His work on this edition showcases his exceptional skill and attention to detail, making it a treasured piece for collectors and literature enthusiasts alike.

The Dickensian Christmas:
Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol has become a beloved classic, celebrated for its message of kindness, generosity, and the power of redemption. Rackham's illustrations help to bring this timeless story to life, capturing the essence of the Christmas spirit and the enduring themes of love and compassion.

The Christmas Gift Book Tradition:
This edition of A Christmas Carol also contributes to the tradition of the Christmas gift book. It serves as a beautiful gift for loved ones, providing a delightful reading experience and a reminder of the values that define the holiday season.

In conclusion, this luxury collectors edition of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is a testament to the power of illustration and the enduring appeal of a timeless classic. Arthur Rackham's stunning illustrations bring the story to life, adding depth and emotion to the characters and themes. Whether you are a fan of Dickens or a lover of fine art, this edition is a must-have for your collection.

Weight: 614g
Dimension: 236 x 177 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781851246175