Finishing a painting meant that the picture came to life

[blobbins]

Can anyone tell me the name of book that I used to love as a youngster - there was a painter who would always leave off a small detail of the pictures of animals he painted because if he finished it they would come to life. I must have read this in the late 70s or early 80s. It might have been based in Japan.

Would be great if anyone can remember more about this.

[ann22]

Re: Finishing a painting meant that the picture came to life

Reminds me a bit of Polly's Magic Paintbox in Twinkle comic. A little girl with plaits would paint a picture of whatever she need and it would become real. A great thing for a child to own!