Kay Nielsen – Illustrations for Red Magic 1930

Kay Rasmus Nielsen (March 12, 1886 – June 21, 1957) was a Danish illustrator who was popular in the early 20th century, the “golden age of illustration”. He joined the ranks of Arthur Rackham and Edmund Dulac in enjoying the success of the gift books of the early 20th century. Nielsen is also known for his collaborations with Disney for whom he contributed many story sketches and illustrations.

Kay Nielsen’s first illustrated book, In Powder and Crinoline was published in 1913. He went on to illustrate East of the Sun, West of the Moon (1914), Andersen’s Fairy Tales (1924), Hansel and Gretel (1925) and Red Magic (1930).

Red Magic, first published in 1930 by Jonathan Cape is a collection of the world’s best fairy tales from all countries. Editing and arranged by Romer Wilson. This is Kay Nielsen’s rarest book and sadly his last illustrated book.

Art Gallery: Kay Nielsen – Red Magic 1930