Rosenbach Museum and Library

Chesire Cat

1865

Wood engraving on paper

Desiel Brothers after Sir John Tenniel

Burn This: Censorship, Secrecy and Survival in the Rosenbach Collection

This object is an example of the Chesire cat and Alice from the story “Alice in Wonderland”.  It is important for the study of early books because it is a rare example of a “proof” print, the process of printing images to go along with text in books.  The print was considered to be of inferior quality according to John Tenniel.  Tenniel wanted it destroyed; yet it survives with evidence of only being singed in a bindery fire.    

The print is displayed on an angle in a glass case.  The room is dim to avoid light pollution and the nearby text gives a short explanation of the reasons behind the object being part of the exhibit.  The point of view is from that of a collector, the rarity, and specialness of the object was apparent through the text.  However, the objects were left to speak for themselves, and without the familiar content of the image, the object could have easily been glanced over.    

Other nearby objects are original copies of “Alice in Wonderland”.  These objects along with their supporting text help illustrate the importance of the entire collection of original prints.  Sir John Tenniel wanted the entire first round of books destroyed because of their imperfection, however they were circulated and survived anyway. 

Understanding book binding as well as the science and art behind printmaking would elevate my level of understanding the object.  Books now are so accessible that we forget how rare and precious they were at the turn of the century.  I could not imagine anyone who would be uninterested in this original print.  The content appeals to everyone, while the object itself appeals to more adult audiences.  If the print was seen in another context however, it could be looked over.  For example, if seen in an art museum in an exhibit focused on engraving, this image would not be as appreciated because of it’s unfinished nature.  By being seen in a library among other rare and partially destroyed books and paper, the importance of this memorable image is elevated.    

http://www.rosenbach.org/