1923 First Anne Anderson Illustrated Edition - Heidi by Johanna Spyri
Author: Johanna Spyri. Illustrated by Anne Anderson.
Title: Heidi.
Publisher: Philadelphia, David McKay Company, 1923. First Anne Anderson Illustrated Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7.5 x 5.5 inches.
Pages: 356 pages.
Binding: Attractive and near fine original publisher’s green cloth binding with gilt titles to spine and color pictorial paper onlay to front board (hinges fine - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. A rare find in such a pristine condition!
Content: Near fine content (bright, tight and clean - as shown).
Illustrations: Beautifully illustrated by Anne Anderson with eight charming full-page color plates, including a frontispiece and numerous scenes capturing the warmth and Alpine spirit of the narrative. All plates present and in excellent condition.
Estimate: (USD 175 – 225).
The book: A delightful First Anne Anderson Illustrated Edition of Heidi, the beloved classic of children’s literature by Johanna Spyri. This edition belongs to “The Golden Books” series by David McKay and stands out for its whimsical illustrations by Anne Anderson, whose soft watercolors complement the innocence and pastoral charm of the story.
The author: Johanna Spyri (1827–1901) was a Swiss author best known for Heidi, originally published in 1880–81. The novel became one of the most famous works of Swiss literature and an enduring favorite in children's literature worldwide. Spyri’s heartfelt storytelling and focus on the moral and natural uplift of her young heroine made Heidi a literary treasure of European Romanticism and a model of wholesome fiction for young readers.
The illustrator: Anne Anderson (1874–1952) was a prolific Scottish illustrator known for her delicate and graceful Art Nouveau–influenced illustrations. Her works adorned many children’s classics, including Grimm’s Fairy Tales and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Her illustrations for Heidi are marked by soft color palettes and gentle linework that perfectly reflect the nostalgic and tender tone of Spyri’s text.