The King of the Golden River

Ruskin, John; Rackham, Arthur (illustrator). The King of the Golden River. George Harrap & Co. 1932. First Trade Edition. 6 X 9. [1] half-title; illustrated frontice; pp. 5-47 [1]. 4 full-page colour plates. Stiff paper boards, with original dust jacket. Pictorial endpapers featuring illustrations in a teal and white grid. Shelf wear to top and tail of paper boards. Some age discolouration to wrappers. Interior pages are clean and bright. Thin red marker line to back cover.

The King of the Golden River was written for Effie Gray, who Ruskin later married. The Victorian classic quickly became a best seller. The fable revolves around the "Black Brothers", Hans and Schwartz, who mistreated the wind, leading to the destruction of Treasure Valley. The brothers resort to stealing from their youngest brother, Gluck. This theft and destruction begins a series of events which lead to the release of The King of the Golden River,

John Ruskin (1819-1900) was an English writer, art critic and philosopher. The King of the Golden River is Ruskin's only work of fiction.

Arthur Rackham (1867 - 1939) was an English illustrator, known for his pen and ink works, combined with watercolour technique. Rackham became one of the leading names throughout the "Golden Age" of British Book Illustration. During this period, there was high demand for illustrated works, often given as gifts. Following his death, Rackham's works have become increasingly popular.