1880 Book Covers from R. Caldecott's Collection of Pictures & Songs

These are the front and back 1880 Book Covers from R. Caldecott's Collection of Pictures & Songs, published by Frederick Warne and Co. of London.  The book contains illustrated nursery rhymes with text and drawings by Randolph Caldecott.  Caldecott (1846-1886) was a British artist and illustrator who greatly influenced the illustration of children's books in the 19th century.  Two books illustrated by him were published every Christmas for eight years, including The House that Jack Built and The Diverting History of John Gilpin.  The Caldecott Medal was named in his honor.  The front cover has an illustration of a walking page with dog and eight various riders on horseback, each carrying a banner that names one of the nursery rhymes in the collection.  The large title is surrounded by a floral border.  In addition, there is a bottom strip of seven birds (eagles?) with outstretched wings.  The design is in terracotta, black and white with gold for the title and as accents in the border and the strip on olive green bookcloth.  The back is solid oliver green bookcloth.  The interior papers have a wonderful intricate abstract design in pale terracotta and white.  Both covers measure 9.25" high by 8" wide and have heavy boards with beveled edges.  The spine is missing.  These 1880 Book Covers from R. Caldecott's Collection of Pictures & Songs is in generally Good Condition.  There is wear, particulary to the edges, and some small stains.  Ideal for use in an art project.