Sir William Nicholson(1872-1949): Bookplate for Phil May(1895)

This early woodcut was produced as a bookplate for Nicholson's friend the graphic artist Phil May (1864-1903). A master draughtsman, May was famed for his economical line and for his humorous depictions of ordinary people. Nicholson appropriately chose a coster-girl for his design, an East End subject which frequently populated May's world. In a second state the words 'Ex Libris Phil May' were made more emphatic , making this first state very rare indeed.

Intrigueingly this bookplate was in a copy of David Pryde's autobiography ('Pleasant Memories Of A Busy Life') - David Pryde being the father of James Pryde the painter (brother-in-law to Nicholson and fellow 'Beggarstaff' collaborator). Perhaps James Pryde gave the book to his good friend Phil May?

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