Christina Scull

J. R. R. Tolkien's complete artwork for his magisterial novel, published on the sixtieth anniversary of The Lord of the Rings As he wrote The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien's mental pictures often found expression in drawing, from rough sketches made within the manuscript to more finished illustrations. Only a few of these were meant for publication; most were aids to help Tolkien conceive his complex story and keep it consistent. Many do not illustrate the final text, but represent moments of creation, illuminating Tolkien's process of writing and design. In addition to pictorial sketches, numerous maps follow the development of the Shire and the larger landscape of Middle-earth, while inscriptions in runes and Elvish script, and "facsimile" leaves from the burned and blood-stained Book of Mazarbul, support Tolkien's pose as an "editor" or "translator" of ancient records. The Art of The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien collects these drawings, inscriptions, maps, and plans in one deluxe volume. More than 180 images are included, all of them printed in color from high-quality scans and photographs, more than half not previously published. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull, two of the world's leading Tolkien scholars, have edited the book and provide an expert introduction and comments.

J. R. R. Tolkien (1892-1973), renowned author of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and The Silmarillion, was an artist in pictures as well as in words. Though he often remarked that he had no talent for drawing, his art has charmed his readers and has been exhibited to large and appreciative audiences. In fact, his talent was far more than he admitted, and his sense of design was natural and keen. This book explores Tolkien's art at length, from his childhood paintings and drawings to his final sketches. At its heart are his illustrations for his books, especially his tales of Middle-earth. Also examined are the pictures Tolkien made for his children (notably in his 'Father Christmas' letters and for the story of Mr. Bliss), his expressive calligraphy, his love of decoration, and his contributions to the typography and design of his books. J. R. R. Tolkien, Artist and Illustrator includes 200 reproductions, many in colour and over half published for the first time.

Stunning three-volume slipcased set containing the most comprehensive in-depth companion to Tolkienâ??s life and works ever published, including synopses of all his writings, and a Tolkien gazetteer, whoâ??s who and chronology.

A unique companion to The Lord of the Rings which relates the textual history of the Nationâ??s Favourite Read; with a previously unpublished Guide to the Names in The Lord of the Rings, written by Tolkien himself.

A companion reference to the film trilogy and the book presents changes made by the author and his son Christopher to the original novel, references to various illustrations and maps, explanations of unique words, and a primer on Tolkien's invented languages.

A lavishly-illustrated study of Tolkienâ??s paintings and drawings, set in the context of his writings.