Four Goats. Written by Benzion Raskin, illustrated by Uriel Kahana. [Warsaw]: Tarbut, (1922).
A children’s story illustrated in the style of Russian Constructivism by the artist and architect Uriel Kahana (1903-1965), who immigrated to Palestine one year after the publication of this book.
"Uriel Kahana, a brilliant illustrator, close in style to Lissitzky and Tchaikov… describes a scary wolf, standing in a threatening pose, exposing sharp teeth and with shining eyes. The wolf’s powerful form is achieved via the use of dark stains, whereas the goats are portrayed using gentle, fragile lines. The story is repetitious, typical of folk tales and appropriate for kindergarten children. Thus, every time the wolf threatens, it is the same intimidating wolf, utilizing the same illustration. In the end, when the wolf dies, the script 'falls' in a diagonal line alongside the wolf… The book is outstanding from an artistic point of view, in its sophisticated incorporation of elements of folk art together with cubist characteristics, and humor with an expressive outlook." (From: “Jewish Illustrations - Illustrated Jewish Books for Children,” Ayala Gordon, Tel-Aviv, [2005] p.85).
[1], 20, [1] pp, approx. 25X20 cm. Very good condition. Stains in the margins and creases to the corners of some leaves. Modern cloth-covered cardboard covers with the original wrappers bound in. Margins of wrappers slightly trimmed. Some staining and creasing to the wrappers, and small tears at the top edges. Strip of adhesive tape to spine.