FRANCES H. GEARHART and Sisters (THE GEARHARTS)
FRUIT FOR SALE c.1928
Color block print. Unsigned. This is an original block print from “Let’s Play”, an intended but unpublished children’s book done in collaboration with her sisters Edna and May. Image 8 x 7 inches. On a tissue thin laid paper. Irregular sheet 9 3/8 x 8 1/2. The entire series consisted of over 20 children's images.
There were very few printed. The editions of the various children varied but likely no more than 50. This impression very well printed with good colors, Very good condition. The margins are likely as issued with the irregular edges. The margins and paper used for this series varies from one print to the next. A bit of tape remnants at top center sheet edge. A very nice example of this print. It is not unusual for impressions of this series to be unsigned, although many are signed "The Gearharts"
The Provenance of this example is fascinating. It was acquired from a gentleman who knew the Gearharts as a child in the early 50's in Pasadena. It was part of a collection given to him by Frances. In his adult years he was in the military and took the collection with him as he traveled around Europe,
After 81 years, based on the original prints, this book was published by the “California Book Club” in a limited edition of 1000 in 2009
Color woodcut, Arts and Crafts, Children's Illustration, California Art.
