Kay Nielsen. East of the Sun and West of the Moon

Folk tales and exquisite illustration: Rediscovering Kay Nielsen’s most ambitious publicationStep into a world of star-crossed lovers, magical winds, mischievous trolls and some of the most exquisite illustration in the history of books. In this gorgeous reprint, TASCHEN revives the most ambitious publication project of beloved Danish artistKay Nielsen, one of the most famous children’s book illustrators of all time.First published in 1914, East of the Sun and West of the Moon is considered ajewel in Art Nouveau design, celebrated by both art and book collectors for Nielsen’s exquisite watercolor scenes ofstar-crossed lovers, warriors, magic in thisclassic Norwegian folk tale. A signed copy of the original East of the Sun, West of the Moon that sold at auction in 2008 commanded thehighest price ever paid for an illustrated children’s book.This finely-crafted centenary reproduction has been produced from adeluxe first edition of Nielsen’s book, the largest surviving series of Nielsen’s work, as well as from thirteen of hisextremely rare watercolor originals. Bringing together a total of51 illustrations, including 25 in color, it will be printed in five colors, including gold to replicate the original’s delicategold-leaf paint and lettering. This reprint features all of the original illustrations and complete story ofEast of the Sun and West of the Moon, and presents the material in fresh, new design with many full-page illustrations and double-page spreads to accentuate the stunning detail and artistry of the original images. The book also features two special originalessays, illustrated with dozens of rare and previously unseen artworkby Nielsen, including anoverview of the making of this masterpiece and a biography of Kay Nielsen’s life and work.This reprint is a revival of a world heritage classic presented in a new format, as well as anunparalleled opportunity to get to see Nielsen's artwork in one place.