Floral Fantasy – In an Old English Garden is a beautiful text – authored and illustrated by Walter Crane. Originally published in 1899, it contains stunning colour and black and white illustrations, which accompany the whimsical yet touching poetry. As the name suggests, ‘Floral Fantasy’ is set in an English country garden, bringing to life a time long passed…In an old world garden dreaming,Where the flowers had human names,Methought in fantastic seeming,They disported as squires and damesWalter Crane (1845 – 1915), was an English artist and book illustrator. He is considered to be the most influential, and among the most prolific, children’s book creator of his generation. Alongside such names as Randolph Caldecott and Kate Greenaway, he was one of the strongest contributors to the child’s nursery theme. Crane’s work is characteristically colourful and beautifully detailed, taking its inspiration from the Arts and Crafts movement (of which he was a member), as well as the iconic child-in-the-garden motif. Pook Press celebrates the great ‘Golden Age of Illustration‘ in children’s literature – a period of unparalleled excellence in book illustration from the 1880s to the 1930s. Our collection showcases classic fairy tales, children’s stories, and the work of some of the most celebrated artists, illustrators and authors.
