They are drawn by one of the key personalities behind the formation of The Guild (The British Puppet and Model Theatre Guild), Harry W.Whanslaw, usually known as 'Whanny'.
As well as being an inspiration to the puppet world, (which is how he is usually remembered), he was one of the most prolific illustrators of books in the early twentieth century; and these rather nice illustrations come from a little book called THE EVER- EVER LAND, by Richard Wilson, printed in 1932, in London.
One of Whannys most significant works was the ‘Chatterbox Annual’, also published in 1923.
It contained some of his illustrations under the title ‘The Toy That Never Grows Old’. The popularity of this led to the publication of the book that inspired so many model theatre enthusiasts, ’Everybody’s Theatre’.
This man is a virtual unknown outside of the puppet world, (where he is revered) and that is a bit of a shame. Some of his illustrations are perfect examples of the simple shapes and bold colours typical of the decorative style of his period.
