Sotheby’s will feature Maurice Sendak’s beloved illustration in an upcoming Books and Manuscripts auction.
Sotheby’s is set to auction a rare piece of original artwork by Maurice Sendak, celebrated author and illustrator of Where the Wild Things Are. The artwork, created for the inaugural 1979 “New York is Book Country” promotional poster, carries an estimated value of $300,000 to $600,000.
The pen, ink, and watercolor piece depicts one of Sendak’s iconic “Wild Things” characters towering over New York City. Leaning against the Empire State Building, the creature is shown enjoying an apple while engrossed in Charlotte Brontë’s novel Villette.
A Tribute to Literature and Art
The 27.5 x 23.5-inch signed illustration was originally produced for the “New York is Book Country” street festival on Fifth Avenue, an annual event that celebrated literature from 1979 to 2010. Over the years, the festival’s promotional posters featured works by notable artists like Charles Schulz, Richard Scarry, and Keith Haring.
“This is exactly what comes to mind when you think of Maurice Sendak and his legacy,” said Ella Hall, a books and manuscripts specialist at Sotheby’s. “Where the Wild Things Are is such a defining part of his contribution to art and literature.”
An Artwork Steeped in History
Acquired directly from Sendak in 1996, the artwork has been held in a private collection for nearly three decades. It was also displayed at the Society of Illustrators Memorial exhibition in 2013, following Sendak’s passing in 2012. Notably, the piece served as the cover art for a book published by Abrams to coincide with the Society’s show.
Reflecting on its significance, Hall shared: “We’ve known this piece was in the current owner’s collection for years. I’ve always loved it, so I was thrilled to bring it to market.”
Potential to Set Auction Records
Sendak’s artwork has garnered increasing interest, especially with his ongoing retrospective at the Denver Art Museum, which runs until February. Hall explained that factors such as the large size of the piece, its connection to New York City’s iconic skyline, and Sendak’s status as a 20th-century illustration pioneer contribute to its estimated value.
“There’s a strong possibility it could set a new auction record for Sendak’s work,” Hall noted. “The ongoing popularity of Where the Wild Things Are and the growth of his market in recent years support this potential.”
The Books and Manuscripts auction will take place on December 10 at Sotheby’s, featuring this unique illustration alongside other notable items, including a first edition copy of Villette by Charlotte Brontë.