Preliminary identification

Encyclopedia Mythologica: Dragons & Monsters Pop-Up Book

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A masterwork of paper engineering, this volume is part of the acclaimed Encyclopedia Mythologica series. It features intricate, multi-layered pop-ups that bring legendary creatures to life with stunning architectural precision.

Story

In 2011, two titans of paper engineering joined forces to push the limits of what a book could be. This isn't just a storybook; it's a portable museum of mechanical art that transforms flat pages into 3D mythical landscapes.

Maker / Origin

Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart are the 'rock stars' of the pop-up world, known for their complex, hand-assembled designs. Their collaboration redefined the genre, moving pop-ups from simple children's toys to sophisticated collectible art.

Condition & Value

The spine shows minor shelf wear, but the true value lies inside. Any tears in the paper hinges or 'tired' mechanisms that don't fully deploy will reduce the value by 50% or more. Value is driven by the condition of the delicate paper mechanisms.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.