Artwork from children's classic 'The Wind in the Willows' is estimated to go for up to £20,000 at upcoming auction.

The original illustration titled 'Toad Escapes from Prison' by renowned British artist and book illustrator Ernest Howard Shepard is estimated to fetch between £15,000 and £20,000 at Forum Auctions.

The artwork, a pencil and watercolour piece, is a rare depiction from Kenneth Grahame’s children's novel. It captures the adventurous spirit of Mr. Toad, making his daring escape from prison dressed as a washerwoman.

Grahame's classic tale, featuring characters Ratty, Mole, and the irrepressible Mr. Toad, was first published in 1908. The book initially only featured a woodcut frontispiece by illustrator and author Graham Robertson.

In 1931, E.H. Shepard, known for his interpretations of Winnie-the-Pooh and Friends, was tasked with bringing Grahame's characters to life.

Shepard’s illustrations have since become synonymous with Grahame’s characters, adding charm and whimsy to the beloved tale.

Rupert Powell, deputy chairman and international head of books at Forum Auctions, expressed his excitement about the upcoming sale.

He said: "This colourful artwork captures the adventurous spirit of Mr. Toad of Toad Hall, who is depicted as conceited and boorish in the book, quickly becoming obsessed with various activities (most notably motor cars).

"He finally gets his comeuppance when jailed for 20 years for stealing and crashing a car.

"He escapes by dressing as a washerwoman, and as befits a children's tale, he ultimately learns from his errant ways, apologises, and by the end of the book is a loveable country gentleman.

"This colourful, animated scene from the book has enchanted readers for generations.

"It is not only a testament to Shepard’s exceptional artistic talent, but also a piece of literary history.

"Shepard’s illustrations have become synonymous with Grahame’s characters, bringing them to life with charm and whimsy.

"The work has been meticulously preserved and is in excellent condition, making it a valuable addition to any collection."

The artwork will be offered in Forum Auctions' Fine Books, Manuscripts and Works on Paper sale on September 26.

It presents a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own a true piece of literary and artistic history.

Forum Auctions, established in 2016, is London’s specialist auction house for books and works on paper. The firm has market-leading capabilities across all genres of 20th and 21st-century prints and editions.