A Dish of Apples (1921) by Eden Phillpotts. Illustrated by Arthur Rackham

A Dish of Apples (1921) is a charming collection of whimsical fables and poetic tales by English author Eden Phillpotts, published by Willaim Heinneman, London, complemented by the inimitable illustrations of Arthur Rackham. The book offers readers a literary feast of short stories that resemble fables or moral allegories, often told through the voices of animals, plants, and nature spirits. Phillpotts, known for his Devonshire novels and lyrical prose, crafts each story with subtle wit and quiet reflection, exploring themes like vanity, pride, kindness, and humility.

The enchantment of this volume is elevated by the presence of Arthur Rackham, one of the most celebrated illustrators of the Golden Age of Illustration. Rackham provided three full-color plates and numerous black-and-white drawings that capture the magic and underlying humor of Phillpotts’ stories. His illustrations in A Dish of Apples are more subdued and graceful than some of his more fantastical works, matching the gentle, pastoral tone of the stories. His signature style—intricate lines, muted watercolor tones, and expressive characterizations—imbues the tales with a quiet whimsy that feels both timeless and deeply English.

About the illustrator Arthur Rackham:

Arthur Rackham (1867–1939) was a British illustrator whose work defined an era of illustrated literature. He became widely known for his contributions to books such as Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens, Grimm’s Fairy Tales, and The Wind in the Willows. His distinctive pen and ink drawings, often enhanced with watercolor, blend fantasy with realism in a way that evokes both wonder and unease. Rackham’s illustrations remain highly collectible, and his work on A Dish of Apples is especially admired for its refined charm and emotional subtlety.

Recommended for collectors:

• The Wind in the Willows (1940), illustrated by Arthur Rackham – A posthumously published classic featuring Rackham’s final illustrations.
• Rip Van Winkle (1905), illustrated by Arthur Rackham – One of Rackham’s early triumphs, full of rich fantasy and dark woodland atmosphere.
• The Allies’ Fairy Book (1916), illustrated by Arthur Rackham – A collection of international fairy tales supporting wartime unity, with Rackham’s varied interpretations.

Art Gallery: Arthur Rackham – A Dish of Apples 1921