Readers interested in the works of G.K. Chesterton will remember that he owned a toy theater about which he wrote on many occasions. The Catholic Lending Library of Hartford is deaccessioning fifteen drawings made by Chesterton (who was also a talented artist) for use in this theater.
Here’s the catalogue listing from the Allinson Gallery:
Gilbert Keith Chesterton. 1874-1936.
Original Drawings for his Children’s Theatre.
Figures in ink and watercolor. Some cut out with tabs on the back to enable the figures to be moved in a theatre. This is an exceptionally rare group of drawings, possibly unique. $10,000 the group.
Letter to Father Kelly from Dorothy E. Collins dated August 3, 1944 stating that the works are by Chesterton and that she is sending them to Father Kelly for The Catholic Lending Library of Hartford, CT.
1. The Knight and the Jester (title on the back). 12 x 14 1/8.
2. The Hero (title on the back). 12 x 8 1/2.
3. Counsellor (title on the back). 13 1/4 x 9 1/2.
4. Journalist (title on the back). 13 1/4 x 9 1/4.
5. [Male Figure in Long Stockings and a Long Pointed Cap Holding a Book]. 13 1/4 x 9 1/2.
6. King’s Physician (title on the back). 13 1/8 x 9 1/4.
7. Chinaman (title on the back). 13 5/8 x 9 3/4.
8. [Four Figures — four panels]. 15 5/8 x 25.
9. Procession (title on the back). 12 x 15.
10. Devils. Drawn on paper, not cardboard. 13 3/4 x 17 3/4.
11. [Viking]. 9 1/8 x 3 5/8.
12. [Knights on Horseback]. 6 3/8 x 12 1/8.
13. [The Wood Cutter]. 12 3/4 x 6 1/8.
14. [Soldier, Courtier, Man with a Moustache].
15. Walter Tittle.
If you know anything about Chesterton, you won’t need me to tell you that this collection of drawings is an extraordinary rarity that will be of the highest possible interest to collectors and scholars.
I have nothing to do with this sale, but I purchased an etching from the Allinson Gallery a couple of years ago and was completely satisfied with the transaction.
To contact the gallery, go here.