Magic Windows / Land of Sweet Surprises.
New York: Philomel Books, 1980-83. Hardcover. Small 4to. Glossy pictorial paper over boards. Each 12pp. Extensive color illustrations. Fine. Item #46271
ISBN: 0399207732
First of these modern facsimile reprints of this pair of 19th century novelty titles, "Magic Windows" first published circa 1897 and "Land of Sweet Surprises" in 1895. Nister (1841-1906) was a pioneering German printer and publisher of novelty children's books, calendars, postcards and greeting cards and he popularized and revolutionized the use of pop-ups and moving parts such as "dissolving pictures" and -- you guessed it! -- "magic windows." First and early editions are, not surprisingly, scarce and spendy and desireable; these modern facsimiles are lovely and well made.
Price: $55.00