B and C by Vivian Robbins

B and C by Vivian Robbins

C. 1942

Chromolithograph on Linenette

The foundational literacy concepts of early childhood are pairing here with scenes of youthful innocence and domestic animals in this vibrant, mid-century illustration showcasing the letters "B" and "C." Hand-illustrated by commercial artist Vivian Robbins, this page was originally published in 1942 by the Merrill Publishing Company within the pages of their popular ABC Picture Book. The upper register centers on a large blue capital "B" paired with the word "baby," depicting a rosy-cheeked infant in a blue checkered romper lying on a pink blanket alongside a playful grey kitten and a colorful patterned ball. The lower register balances this with a bright red capital "C" paired with the word "chick," highlighting an anthropomorphic white rabbit wearing red overalls who gently watches over three fluffy, yellow baby chicks interacting on a patch of green grass.

This page was originally produced as a standalone plate for a large-format, linenette-style children's alphabet primer. During the early to mid-twentieth century, American publishers like the Merrill Publishing Company utilized oversized, color-saturated picture books to introduce foundational literacy concepts to young children. Robbins became highly celebrated for her exceptional ability to translate innocent animal behavior and soft, storybook textures into commercial print media. This book represents the golden age of American lithographic children's primers, reflecting the period's distinct artistic emphasis on comforting, idealized domestic narratives designed to foster early cognitive development.

Dimensions: H 12 ¼” x 9 ½” W

Condition: In very good condition