The Kate Greenaway Treasury edited by Edward Ernest

The Kate Greenaway Treasury edited by Edward Ernest is a charming and beautifully produced anthology that showcases the delicate artistry and enduring literary appeal of celebrated Victorian illustrator Kate Greenaway. Published by Collins, London and Glasgow in 1968, this attractive hardcover edition gathers together a delightful selection of Greenaway’s illustrations and writings, accompanied by an introduction by Ruth Hill Viguers.

Kate Greenaway remains one of the most beloved illustrators of the nineteenth century, renowned for her idyllic depictions of childhood, pastoral scenes, and distinctive fashions inspired by Regency and Victorian styles. Her gentle watercolour illustrations influenced generations of artists, designers, and children’s bookmakers, making her works highly collectible today. The Kate Greenaway Treasury serves as an excellent introduction to her artistic legacy and is equally desirable for collectors, decorators, and admirers of classic children’s literature.

The volume is particularly attractive in its elegant green cloth binding with gilt decoration and titling, complemented by the original illustrated dust jacket featuring numerous Greenaway figures. Internally, the book contains a rich assortment of colour and monochrome illustrations reproduced with excellent clarity, making The Kate Greenaway Treasury both a visual delight and an important retrospective of Greenaway’s contribution to illustrated publishing.

Collectible illustrated anthologies of Kate Greenaway’s work continue to enjoy strong interest internationally, especially attractive hardcover editions in well-preserved condition. This edition would make a wonderful addition to collections focusing on Victorian illustration, classic children’s books, decorative bindings, or literary art history. The Kate Greenaway Treasury also displays beautifully as a decorative shelf piece due to its refined period aesthetic and iconic artwork.

Condition – Near Fine 

1968 hardcover in near fine condition. Green cloth boards and spine with gilt work are in immaculate condition. The dust jacket is very good and appears slightly faded. Internally, the book is clean and securely bound with tape marks present on the endpapers and foxing noted approximately two pages deep from both the front and rear.