The Red Fairy Book (1924) – by Andrew Lang, illustrated by Gustaf Tenggren

This 1924 edition of The Red Fairy Book—part of Andrew Lang’s celebrated “Color Fairy Book” series—features the enchanting early artwork of Gustaf Tenggren, who would later become one of Disney’s most influential concept artists. Published by David McKay Co., the volume collects beloved European fairy tales like “The Twelve Dancing Princesses” and “Jack and the Beanstalk,” brought to life through Tenggren’s lush, painterly illustrations. His style blends Nordic folk influences with a warm, storybook charm, creating scenes of magical forests, towering castles, and whimsical characters that feel both timeless and fresh.

A bridge between European folklore traditions and modern illustration, this Tenggren-illustrated edition remains a treasure for fairy-tale enthusiasts and animation historians alike.

About the Illustrator
Gustaf Tenggren (1896–1970) was a Swedish-American artist whose career spanned golden-age illustration, Disney animation (Snow White, Bambi), and mid-century children’s books (The Poky Little Puppy). His work for The Red Fairy Book showcases his early European style—rich in detail and atmospheric lighting—before he adapted to the bolder aesthetics of American publishing. Tenggren’s ability to balance grandeur and coziness made him ideal for fairy tales, and this edition captures a pivotal moment in his artistic evolution.

Recommended for Collectors

• The Blue Fairy Book (1889) by Andrew Lang, illustrated by H.J. Ford – The first of Lang’s series, with classic Victorian engravings
• East of the Sun and West of the Moon (1914) illustrated by Kay Nielsen – For another Nordic-inspired fairy-tale vision
• Tenggren’s Story Book (1930) – Showcasing the artist’s later, more polished style

Art Gallery: Gustaf Tenggren – Red Fairy Tales 1924