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[TBILISI CHILDREN’S BOOK] ყაჩაღანა = Q’achaghana [i.e. Little Bandit]

Baratashvili, M.

Item #2808

Tbilisi: Sabavshvo da akhalgazrdobis lit’gamomtsemloba, 1938. 22, [1] pp. 24x17 cm. In original illustrated wrappers. Rubbed, tears of spine, edges of covers chipped, some creases, small upper corners lost, otherwise good.

First and only edition. One of 6000 copies. In Georgian.

An interesting example of early Soviet children’s books imbued with the spirit of socialist changes in the young generation. At the start of the story, the main character is a real handful. But after one incident forces him to take a hard look at himself, he has a complete change of heart. Overnight, it seems, he becomes a neat, diligent student and a model young pioneer who inspires others to follow his lead. The verses were written by Georgian poetess and playwright Maria (Mariam) Baratashvili (1908–2008).

The cover design and illustrations were created by the Georgian artist Nina Vermisheva-Kilasonidze (1908–1992). After graduating from the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts, she devoted herself entirely to the theater. She went on to become the principal set designer at the Young Audience Theater and designed productions for the Griboyedov Theater, the Armenian Drama Theater in Tbilisi, the Abashidze Theater of Musical Comedy, as well as theaters in the cities of Chiatura and Tskhinvali. She also had a long and prolific career in Georgian animated film. Less known is the fact that she also illustrated children’s books – a delightful addition to her creative legacy.

Not found in Worldcat.

Price: $650.00