Goblin Market - Illustrated by Arthur Rackham

‘Goblin Market’ (composed in 1859 and published in 1862) is a narrative poem by Christina Rossetti. Rossetti (1830 – 1894) was an English poet who wrote a large variety of romantic, devotional and children’s poems. ‘Goblin Market’ is a work with a particularly curious history – it has features of remarkably sexual imagery – yet Rossetti often stated that the poem was intended for children, and indeed, wrote many other nursery tales. It essentially revolves around two close sisters; Laura and Lizzie, as well as the goblins to whom the title refers.

The edition of ‘Goblin Market’ is also accompanied by a series of dazzling colour illustrations by Arthur Rackham (1867-1939). One of the most celebrated painters of the British Golden Age of Illustration (which encompassed the years from 1850 until the start of the First World War), Rackham’s artistry is quite simply, unparalleled. Throughout his career, he developed a unique style, combining haunting humour with dream-like romance. Presented alongside the text, his illustrations further refine and elucidate Rossetti’s masterful poetry.

Pook Press celebrates the great ‘Golden Age of lllustration‘ in children’s literature – a period of unparalleled excellence in book illustration. We publish rare and vintage Golden Age illustrated books, in high-quality colour editions, so that the masterful artwork and story-telling can continue to delight both young and old.