Playtime

With the holidays upon us, my mind easily turns to toys and books—two of my favorite things. This featured 1951 book of popular toys from around the world, covers both bases very nicely. In Folk-toys Les Jouets Populaires, author and illustrator Emanuel Hercik presents the development of the handmade folk toy from early civilization up to 1950. It is published in Prague where there is a long tradition of folk art and design. Hercik's unpretentious illustrations are a delight and with 176 color plates in all, he reminds us why these simple folk toys still hold our interest. These few random pages are from Tooknap Press, but you can also find more images here and here. Not just for children.