Arabian Nights (1909) – Illustrated by Maxfield Parrish

This dazzling 1909 edition of Arabian Nights showcases the luminous artistry of Maxfield Parrish, whose illustrations transform Scheherazade’s tales into a radiant dreamscape. Published by Charles Scribner’s Sons in New York, the book features Parrish’s signature use of glowing colors, dramatic lighting, and fantastical architectural backdrops—hallmarks of his “Parrish blue” period. His interpretations of Aladdin, Sinbad, and other iconic characters blend Persian-inspired designs with an almost surreal, otherworldly beauty, creating scenes that seem to glow from within. The illustrations, rich in jewel tones and intricate detail, elevate the exotic allure of the tales, making this volume a masterpiece of early 20th-century book art.

A beacon of Golden Age illustration, this Maxfield Parrish-illustrated Arabian Nights remains a pinnacle of fantasy art, coveted for its mesmerizing blend of storytelling and visual genius.

About the Illustrator
Maxfield Parrish (1870–1966) was one of America’s most celebrated illustrators, renowned for his ethereal, hyper-realistic style. His work for Arabian Nights captures his transition from decorative Art Nouveau to the bold, color-saturated fantasy scenes that made him famous. Parrish’s unique glazing technique—layering thin coats of paint and varnish—gave his illustrations an unparalleled luminosity, influencing everything from advertising to Hollywood set design.

Recommended for Collectors

• The Knave of Hearts (1925) by Louise Saunders, illustrated by Parrish – A later showcase of his theatrical style
• Poems of Childhood (1904) by Eugene Field, illustrated by Parrish – For more of his early dreamlike imagery
• Stories from the Arabian Nights (1907) illustrated by Edmund Dulac – A complementary jewel-toned interpretation

Art Gallery: Maxfield Parrish – The Arabian Nights 1909