Maurice Sendak 2 Proof Sheets of Christmas Room, Toppan Printing Co.

Two test sheets, both measuring 23.5" x 13.5", No place [Taiwan], undated. A set of two printer proofs for "Nutcracker", featuring an image of the Christmas tree room within an Asian-inspired room. Asian men can be seen out the open windows, carrying small umbrellas. The tree rests upon a small table along with a doll, books, and several toy houses., Both sheets are labeled "Nutcracker No. 2 (#6. #39). One is marked "ESPEC" and signed "Toppan #1", while the other is marked "HAKOH" and signed "Toppan proof 1." Both have a small "T" written at the top right corner, as well as a color bar down one margin. All printed text is in Japanese. The sheets have been stored rolled and have slight creasing at the edges. One sheet has a few hole punches and a rough bottom edge. Overall very fine.

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.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!