Valentine and Orson, The Twin Knights of France (1919) By S. R. Littlewood. Illustrated by Florence Mary Anderson

Published in 1919 by Simpkin, Marshall, Hamilton, Kent and Co., Ltd., London. This edition revives the medieval romance of twin brothers separated at birth through Florence Mary Anderson’s striking illustrations. The book features twelve full-page color plates and numerous black-and-white drawings that capture the tale’s chivalric splendor and emotional drama. Anderson’s artwork blends Pre-Raphaelite influences with Art Nouveau sensibilities, her rich colors and dynamic compositions bringing to life the brothers’ adventures, from Valentine’s courtly battles to Orson’s wild upbringing in the forest. The illustrations particularly shine in their depiction of contrasting worlds – the refined elegance of court versus the untamed power of nature.

Florence Mary Anderson (1884-1961)
The accomplished British illustrator specialized in historical and children’s book illustration during the early 20th century. Trained at the Liverpool School of Art, Anderson developed a distinctive style that combined meticulous period detail with flowing, expressive lines. Her work for this medieval romance showcases her talent for dramatic narrative scenes and her deep understanding of medieval costume and armor. While less celebrated today than some contemporaries, Anderson’s illustrations for this volume demonstrate why she was highly regarded in her time for bringing historical tales to vivid life.

For collectors:
• Stories of King Arthur by Beatrice Clay, illustrated by Florence Mary Anderson (1920) – Shows her Arthurian illustration style
• The High History of the Holy Graal illustrated by Jessie M. King (1903) – A comparable medieval romance with Art Nouveau illustrations
• A Book of Myths by Jean Lang, illustrated by Helen Stratton (1914) – Features similar Pre-Raphaelite-inspired mythological illustrations

Art Gallery: Florence Mary Anderson – Valentine and Orson: The Twin Knights of France 1919