Lot 168: James Marshall (American, 1942-1992)

1. "Hezekiah Q. Butterworth (Meanie)," unpublished 11-page manuscript on six sheets for a proposed picture book.
Color felt tip pen.
The name of this foul-tempered crocodile was ironic: the real Hezekiah Butterworth (1839–1905) was a prolific and pious children's book writer and an editor of The Youth's Companion. Intended as a Christmas present to Ms. Scott, this delightful bit of nonsense was never published probably because the children's book trade was not ready for this "pathetic story of cruelty and general nastiness."
2. "The Opera," unpublished five-page manuscript of a fanciful opera with an undated decorated letter.
Watercolor and ink.
The paintings of "La Tosca," "Dancing Bulldogs" and other subjects suggest the unlikely influence of both Eugene Berman and Edward Gorey.
3. Six unpublished drawings of a couple on Christmas Day, before and after opening their presents.
Felt tip pen.
various sizes.

Archive of unpublished manuscripts and drawings by the author-artist of the modern children's classic George and Martha (1972), and presented to his close friend, psychotherapist Adrienne Scott.