Previously unseen preliminary pencil sketches of Winnie-the-Pooh by E H Shepard have been shared for the first time by his family, marking the centenary of the beloved 1926 book. The drawings, abandoned at the earliest stage of creation, offer a rare glimpse into Shepard's creative process as he brought AA Milne's characters to life.
One sketch, captioned 'Climbing very cautiously up the stream', depicts Pooh, Christopher Robin, Piglet, and Owl intended for Chapter VIII, where Christopher Robin leads an 'expotition' to the north pole. Another delicate study for Chapter III shows Pooh and Piglet hunting for a Woozle. Both passages were familiar to readers but lacked illustrations in the original book.
The drawings will be displayed at Peter Harrington Rare Books in central London from 17 April. Senior specialist Philip W Errington described them as 'very special', highlighting the vibrant creativity and exceptional skill in rendering movement. 'These pieces really do leap off the page,' he said.
Errington noted the rarity of such preliminary drawings, capturing 'the first moment of inspiration' where Shepard thought through movement, character, and narrative in pencil alone. He pointed out details like a small arrow indicating 'closer' for Piglet, showing the artist's problem-solving process.
