Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A masterpiece of paper engineering, this book is part of David A. Carter's acclaimed 'color' series of abstract pop-ups. It functions more like a portable kinetic sculpture gallery than a traditional children's book, featuring complex, gravity-defying paper constructions.
Story
David A. Carter revolutionized the 21st-century pop-up by moving away from characters and toward pure abstract art. This 2008 release challenged readers to find a hidden yellow square within increasingly wild geometric landscapes.
Maker / Origin
David A. Carter is a titan of paper engineering, having created over 90 pop-up books including the 'Bugs' series. He is a recipient of the Meggendorfer Prize, the highest honor in the movable book world, recognizing his ability to turn flat paper into 3D architecture.
Condition & Value
Appears to be in original publisher's shrinkwrap, which is rare for pop-up books as the mechanisms are usually tested by readers. This preservation prevents the common 'mechanical fatigue' seen in used copies. Excellent condition commands a premium.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.