Alice au Pays des Merveilles (1949) by Lewis Carroll, illustrated by Adrienne Ségur.

This 1949 French edition of Alice au Pays des Merveilles (Alice in Wonderland) is one of the most enchanting interpretations of Lewis Carroll’s classic, brought vividly to life by the delicate and dreamlike illustrations of Adrienne Ségur. Published by Flammarion, a prominent French publishing house, this edition stands out for its elegance, fantasy, and artistic charm.

Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a cornerstone of children’s literature, celebrated for its surreal narrative, linguistic playfulness, and imaginative characters. In Ségur’s version, the story retains its whimsical heart but is filtered through a uniquely French aesthetic—romantic, detailed, and magical. Her illustrations complement the narrative’s strangeness while softening it with lyrical beauty.

In this edition, Alice is portrayed with innocence and poise, and even the more eccentric characters—like the Mad Hatter and the Cheshire Cat—carry a graceful elegance. Ségur’s artistic vision transforms Carroll’s fantastical world into an enchanting visual fairyland that captivates both children and adult collectors.

Adrienne Ségur (1901–1981) was a French illustrator best known for her fairy tale illustrations during the mid-20th century. Her work became iconic through Le Livre de la Jungle and Contes de fées, published by Flammarion. Her signature style blends precise, realistic detail with the ornate delicacy of rococo and art nouveau, often featuring ethereal children, richly dressed animals, and lush natural elements. Ségur’s illustrations have a dreamlike quality, often likened to porcelain figurines or embroidered tapestries, and they reflect both sweetness and a subtle melancholy.

Recommended for collectors:

• Les Contes de Perrault (1950), illustrated by Adrienne Ségur – A luxurious edition of Perrault’s tales with her signature enchanting visuals.
• La Belle au Bois Dormant (1951), illustrated by Adrienne Ségur – A singular retelling of Sleeping Beauty, filled with romantic elegance and expressive detail.

Art Gallery: Adrienne Segur – Alice au Pays des Merveilles 1949