This is the largest coloring book I own — 492 pages and only a few are colored. Coloring books from the 30s and 40s rarely have a theme, and the drawings are usually done by several different artists. It seems like Whitman and other publishers would just combine a group of pages by various artists, and then release a “new” coloring book with a different cover. I have several coloring books published in different years that contain some of the same pages. Not that I’m complaining — I love these old books and this is one of the best.
Today I have chosen several pages that I think may be early Eloise Wilkin drawings. Elliott and Emily loved the Golden Books “We Help Mommy” and “We Help Daddy” illustrated by Wilkin, but I could be wrong about these coloring book images — artists are not credited in these old coloring books, so it’s hard to know for sure. I just think they look like Wilkin — what do you think?
I think you are right! I don’t think there is as much resemblence in the Alice in Wonderland, but the others surely are by the same artist! Great images!
I also think you are right. Alice has the same kind of hairline as the other little girls. I wouldn’t have noticed that though on my own because it’s kind of hard to get past the disturbing Duchess and her bawling baby! 🙂 Those illustrations are very cute. I think the little knitter is especially sweet.
I agree – they sure look like Wilkin. I loved reading those books to my brother when he was small! My grandma had tons of Golden Books, wish I still had them. These pages are darling!
I remember having these books as a child! Love the Georgetown Circle – will it be in a quilt with the other blue and white block you have drafted?
I’m not familiar with the artist. But they are so adorable. I especially like the one with Naughty doll… so cute!