DIGITAL TOUR: Jerry Pinkney: Imaginings

Puss in Boots (2015)

Puss in Boots by Charles Perrault was first published in France in 1697, and later translated in England in 1729, the time period in which Jerry Pinkney’s version is set. The story focuses on the antics of a clever cat who tricks both a king and a sorcerer to make his master’s dreams come true. Pictured as a black-and-white silver tabby British shorthair, Puss was inspired by illustrations the artist enjoyed in The Blue Fairy Book, compiled by Andrew Lang in 1965. In gathering background for the book, he borrowed many illustrated versions from the library, and searched for visual information about early eighteenth century France—from period clothing to gardens, mills, castles, and coaches. In this engaging composition, Puss holds the royal title of prime minister, and is seen sketching out his idea for a new and efficient mouse trap.