Old French Fairy Tales (1920) by Comtesse de Ségur, illustrated by Virginia Frances Sterrett

Old French Fairy Tales (1920) by Comtesse de Ségur and published by Penn Publishing Company of Philadelphiais is a beautifully written and illustrated collection that transports readers into the magical world of classic French storytelling. Comtesse de Ségur, a Russian-born French writer, is known for her moral tales for children that blend fantasy with gentle social critique. This volume includes classic tales such as Blondine, Good Little Henry, and Ourson, which explore themes of kindness, loyalty, and transformation in a magical world populated by fairies, princes, and talking animals.This volume includes tales of chivalry, enchantment, and moral lessons, capturing the gentle charm and wonder of 19th-century French literary fairy tales. The stories are romantic, whimsical, and often tinged with both humor and subtle social commentary, reflecting de Ségur’s unique voice as a prominent children’s author in France.

What elevates this edition to a true collector’s treasure is the stunning artwork by Virginia Frances Sterrett. Created when she was only 19 years old, Sterrett’s illustrations for this volume show an extraordinary maturity and a distinctive, dreamlike style. Her twelve full-color plates and decorative black-and-white drawings are richly detailed, with a flowing, ethereal quality influenced by both Art Nouveau and Persian miniature painting. The artwork perfectly complements the tone of the stories, blending fantasy, elegance, and a touch of melancholy.

This edition is highly prized by collectors of illustrated books for its rare combination of literary and artistic beauty.

About the illustrator Virginia Frances Sterrett

Virginia Frances Sterrett (1900–1931) was an American illustrator known for her short but brilliant career. Despite suffering from chronic illness (tuberculosis), she produced three major illustrated books: Old French Fairy Tales (1920), Tanglewood Tales (1921), and Arabian Nights (1928). Her art stands out for its lyrical composition, decorative elegance, and poetic sensibility. Though she died at just 31, her work remains deeply admired by collectors and lovers of illustrated books.

Recommended for collectors and readers:

• Tanglewood Tales (1921), illustrated by Virginia Frances Sterrett – Greek myths reimagined with her delicate and mystical visual style.
• The Arabian Nights (1928), illustrated by Virginia Frances Sterrett – A sumptuous and mature work filled with Eastern fantasy and elegance.
• East of the Sun and West of the Moon (1914), illustrated by Kay Nielsen – A Scandinavian fairy tale collection with magical Art Nouveau imagery.

Art Gallery: Sterrett, Virginia Frances – Old French Fairy Tales 1920