VERNON GRANT. "The Two Elves." 16 illustrations for an apparently unpublished children's book, circa 1930s. Watercolor, ink, and wash on paper with typed captions tipped to lower margins. 470x368 mm; 18 1/2x14 1/2 inches, sheets. Not signed.
a charming archive of finished illustrations by one of the most popular and prolific illustrators of the mid-20th century. Grant is perhaps best known for creating the characters Snap!, Crackle!, and Pop! for Kellogg's Rice Krispies, and the two impish elves depicted in the art for this book bear a close resemblance to their famous brethren, from their oversized ears to their distinctive hats. The story follows the elves on a night-time adventure in a "big airy nursery...plum full of fun" as they engage in various frolics.A previously unknown work by an important American illustrator whose distinctive whimsical style influenced many of his contemporaries, including Walt Disney.
