INSCRIBED BY MAURICE SENDAK TO A CLOSE FRIEND AND NEIGHBOR
SENDAK, Maurice. Poster inscribed ["The Cunning Little Vixen"]. New York, 1981. Color poster, measuring 14 by 24 inches; professionally lined and framed, entire piece measures 15 by 25 inches. $1600.
Limited edition, number 174 of 500 copies of this poster for the New York City Opera's 1981 production of The Cunning Little Vixen, inscribed to a close friend and neighbor: "For Michael—Greetings! Maurice. May '81."
Beginning in the 70s, Sendak designed sets and costumes for a number of operas. This one is for the New York City Opera's 1981 production of Janácek's The Cunning Little Vixen, with Gianna Rolandi in the role of the vixen. Hanrahan C10b. The former owner of this inscribed poster was Maurice Sendak's neighbor, Andrew, from Ridgefield, Connecticut, the brother of the inscribee, Michael. Sendak bought a home and studio in Ridgefield in 1972 with his longtime partner, Eugene Glynn, and lived there until his death. Andrew first encountered Sendak in 1975 during one of his daily dog walks. (Sendak owned many dogs throughout his life, and they often starred in his books.) Andrew was immediately taken with Sendak, who reminded him of his recently deceased father. One day, Andrew called Sendak at home and asked if he could join him on his walks. Andrew and Sendak thus embarked on a 37-year friendship that also included the Andrew's mother, Betty, as well as Andrew's brother. Sendak went on long walks and hikes with Andrew and his family regularly, discussing general life events, opera, and books. He frequently bartered for autographs, as well (i.e. a cake for an inscribed drawing). The many inscribed drawings, along with first editions, signed books, and other valuable items grew into one of the country's premier Sendak collections, compiled by various members of a single family and ultimately owned by Andrew.
Minor soiling to extremities. A lovely piece.