Old Rhymes

6C, Raphael Tuck & Sons, Ltd, Pictured by Marbel-Lucie Attwell 1910

Notes

Old Rhymes (1910) is a charming early 20th-century children’s book that preserves traditional nursery rhymes and verses that had been passed down orally for generations. Published during a time when there was growing interest in collecting and safeguarding folklore, the book reflects a nostalgic look back at childhood and storytelling traditions.

Typically, editions of Old Rhymes from around 1910 feature familiar English nursery rhymes—such as lullabies, counting rhymes, and playful verses—many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These rhymes were not only meant to entertain children but also helped with memory, rhythm, and early language learning.

What makes editions from this period especially notable is their illustration style. Books like this were often beautifully decorated with color plates or delicate line drawings by well-known illustrators of the time, influenced by artists such as Kate Greenaway or Randolph Caldecott. The artwork typically has a soft, whimsical, and sometimes sentimental quality that adds to the book’s enduring appeal.

Physically, a 1910 edition of Old Rhymes is often considered collectible today. Many copies were produced with decorative bindings, gilt lettering, and high-quality paper, making them attractive to book collectors as well as lovers of vintage children’s literature.

Description

Large hardback with colorful illustration on front cover, clear dust jacket, fine condition