JAMES GUILFORD SWINNERTON (1875-1974) A CALIFORNIA BEAR CALENDAR. 1898. 22x16 inches, 56x40 1/2 cm. Condition B+: minor tears and abrasions in margins; creases in margins and image; pencil notations in bottom margin. Paper. The Bookman magazine text in January 1897 states, "Just a year ago there was published by Mr. William Doxley, of San Francisco, a book for 'wee bits of tykes,' which we warmly recommended. We were especially pleased with the illustrations which had those elements of exuberant fancy and whimsical humor that appeal to the incipient intelligence of the child. The artist, Mr. James Swinnerton, knowns as "Swin," has this year designed 'A California Bear Calendar,' which is just as unique, and we have preferred it among all the calendars that have come to us . . . and a gorgeous poster in red, green and black goes with it" (The Bookman, January 1897, p. 403).
