Katharine Pyle (1863-1938) was American author and illustrator, younger sister of more famous Howard Pyle (1853-1911) who was also author and illustrator. Katharine actually started her artistic career as a poet and her brother helped her at her first steps in literary world.

Katharine Pyle have rewritten many classic fairy tales and fables which she illustrated too. she illustrated books for other authors and other illustrators illustrated her books. Pretty versatile lady, huh?

Today we’ll have a short presentation of her work with one color and eight black and white illustrations from book Fairy Tales From Many Lands, published by E. P. Dutton & Company in 1911.

First illustration is from Mishosha, The Magician Of The Lake, old tale of American Indians.

The gulls carried him swiftly back to Mishosha’s Island…

Next is from the story about two sisters from Hindu folklore.

There were many beautiful dresses among the treasures of the palace…

And now we go with well known Russian fairy tale with famous zhar bird.

She lifted it in her hands and tasted it…

O.k., let’s switch to Italy!

Each one was said to be handsomer than the others…

We will visit Japan now!

Overcome with joy at the sight of such a treasure…

Story about Buttercup comes from Norse:

“Then show me how, and I will hold the ax for you!”

Yes, right:)

O.k., time for some Turkish legends:

“Ha!” cried the Sun, “is it you, fair one?”

You’ll have to read it to find out what happens next. We are already in England and here is illustration from Cherry:

He was richly dressed and looked like a foreigner…

The last illustration is from France.

She lifted the heavy pitcher for her to drink…

Yep, that’s it. Katharine Pyle loved old tales and she wasn’t afraid of dark versions which were already loosing popularity in the beginning of 20th century. For this reason she came in disagreement with at least one editor.

Katharine Pyle died on 19th February 1938.