Maurice Sendak Two Proof Sheets, Nutcracker Dai Nipponi Printing Co.

Two test sheets, both measuring 26.25" x 21", No place [Taiwan], undated. A set of two printer proofs for "Nutcracker", featuring an image of the main Christmas tree, along with an image of a Japanese temple and several characters dressed in traditional garb. The tree is dated August 12, 1983 and the group of characters is dated June 18, 1983. Both are signed "Dai Nipponi", with a "DN" inscribed at the upper right corner. Both also have a color bar down one margin. All printed text is in Japanese and are signed in print by Sendak. The sheets have been stored rolled and have minor edge soiling. A few small tears at the edges. One signature is smudged.

In 1979, Kent Stowell, the choreographer for the Pacific Northwest Ballet, contacted illustrator Maurice Sendak (1928–2012) about collaborating on a ballet production of "The Nutcracker". Sendak was not interested until reading the original story by Hoffmann, and he set about creating a new version of the ballet that honored Hoffmann, Tchaikovsky, "and ourselves." The ballet opened in December 1983 to great acclaim, and Sendak's original set drawings were enhanced for a book version that was published in 1984. One of the highlights of the show is when the Christmas tree doubles in size on stage, embodying the magic of the performance.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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