Small Beer – Limited Edition #71/175 with Original Full-Page Drawing Signed & Captioned by Ludwig Bemelmans (1939 Viking)

Published in 1939, the same year Bemelmans introduced Madeline to the world, Small Beer was issued by Viking Press in a deluxe limited edition of 175 copies, each containing an original illustration by the author. Most examples include small line sketches. This copy — hand‑numbered #71 — is exceptional for containing a full‑page nude, rendered in Bemelmans’ unmistakable minimalist style with soft pink and yellow washes.

The drawing is signed “Bemelmans” and captioned in his hand: “Best you stay here.” Full‑page nudes are extremely uncommon and rarely appear on the market, making this one of the most distinctive copies known.

The book is preserved in Near Fine condition:

• Original orange cloth bright and clean

• Black spine band with sharp gilt lettering and decoration

• All three edges retain the original red/orange stain

• Interior pages fresh, clean, and free of foxing

• Binding tight and square

• Original drawing unfaded and unmarred

• Vintage bookseller’s label: Wold Book Shop — Oakland, Calif.

• No slipcase (as is common for this edition)

A superior example of the limited issue — combining scarcity, condition, provenance, and a uniquely expressive piece of original Bemelmans art.

Published the same year as Madeline (1939), this limited edition represents Bemelmans at the height of his creative powers — making the presence of an original full‑page signed drawing even more significant.

This copy is notably fresh — the cloth, gilt, edges, and interior show virtually no signs of handling, and the text block remains tight, indicating the pages were seldom, if ever, fully opened or read.