Kubasta, V.
Christopher Columbus Genuensis. Santa Maria. [Pop up].
Czechoslovakia, V. Kubasta, ca. 1965. (32.4 x 22.5 cm - 32.4 x 45.0 when folded out). Full colour boards with cloth spine; revolving steering wheel, three pop up ships and Caribbean scenery.
A formidable popup by the great 20th-century popup designer, the Czech artist Vojtech Kubasta [Vojtěch Kubašta] (1914-1990). The central scene depicts Columbus's ships, Santa Maria, Niña and Pinta, at an anchorage near a tropical island, presumably Hispaniola or Cuba. On the front cover is a view from the wheel towards the stern with an island in the background. Turning the wheel reveals Columbus's itinerary on a map. The rear board shows a portrait of Columbus; Columbus showing the new route to China to Isabella of Castile; the landing at Guanahani (Bahamas or Turks and Caicos Islands) and first contact with the local Indians, Columbus’s famous egg trick, and Columbus's coat of arms. A skilful repair to a steering wheel knob. In near mint condition. Rare.