Walter Crane

Happy Birthday Walter Crane!! English illustrator, Walter Crane, was born in Liverpool, in 1845. His father Thomas Crane was an artist also. He apprenticed as a wood engraver as a young man, and at that time became familiar with the intricacies possible with engraving; later becoming fascinated with Japanese color prints. Walter was known for his illustrations for children's books as well as designs for wedgewood ceramics decoration. He wrote several books on illustration and design. He was connected to the Socialist Movement in the effort to bring art to all social classes. Crane helped found the Art and Craft Exhibition Society in 1888. The illustration below is from Beauty and the Beast. Please note the attention to detail in the wallpaper background, elegant furnishings and descriptive characters.