THE ART OF MAURICE SENDAK, 1980 To The Present

New York: Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers, 2003. Hardcover. Good Plus/Fine. The work of Sendak as a children's book artist has been known around the world since his Caldecott winning "Where The Wild Things Are" in 1963. Less well-known is Sendak's work for adults, a kind of second career, in set and costume design for opera and other theatrical and dance productions, as well as work on posters, CD covers, book jackets and adult books, particulary since 1980. This volume, with text by playwright Tony Kushner, Sendak's longtime friend, chronicles and provides insight on this second career. First edition, first printing (with complete numberline). Oversize, about 11 3/4 x 11 inches, bound in dark-blue cloth-covered boards with gold lettering on spine. Dustjacket's front and back panels show finished watercolor designs from "The Magic Flute;" dj's flaps show prop and costume designs. Book is lavishly illustrated with Sendak's work, in full color and black & white, the pastedowns and end pages each with six full color illustrations. We must note this copy is an ex-library book with all the usual library markings on text edges, end papers, and with a library memorial card and plate pasted on the fep. However much those markings may subtract from its collector's value, they detract not at all from the strength and beauty of Sendak's art throughout the book. The book's condition beyond the library markings rates a "near fine" due to shelfwear. The dustjacket, still wearing a Brodart dj protector, rates as "fine." This is a book the library should never have parted with. [Due to its size and weight, this book will require additional postage for priority/express orders or orders outside the U.S.]