June 2017 is the 60th Anniversary of the original publication of ‘Angels on Horseback’, the first cartoon book by World-renowned countryside artist, Norman Thelwell.
To mark the occasion, Methuen Books have been working with Norman’s artist son, David, to re-publish this classic collection of hilarious and keenly-observed pony and child cartoons so beloved by generations of children and adults alike.
David Thelwell says, “Sixty years ago a collection of Punch cartoons, with additions that helped mould them into a single book, was published and was an instant success. The fearless little girls and their willful ponies struck a nerve with the public when they first appeared and my father started to receive fan mail from all over the world. The humour is timeless by capturing something of the essence of being human, and because of the wonderful expressions on the faces of the characters, especially the ponies. Thelwell cartoons still make people laugh out loud and my father would have been proud of the joy his work has given to so many....for so long!”
Charles Sainsbury-Plaice (Thelwell Licensee) says of Norman’s cartoons that, “He was originally inspired by the antics of two portly, temperamental ponies in the neighbouring field and their ‘love/hate’ relationships with their diminutive female owners. Thelwell is, of course, most famous for perceptively, yet always kindly, caricaturing this popular pony club scene of the time, invariably with the horses getting the upper hand! However, his wealth of serious landscapes, seascapes and more general satirical pen and ink cartoons prove that Norman was far more than just a ‘one trick pony’.”
Either through nostalgic or fresh eyes, ‘Angels on Horseback’ is sure to charm Countryside lovers of any vintage.
It's out now and is available from www.countrysidegreetings.co.uk, Amazon, Methuen and all good book sellers.
