The Age Of Enchantment:
Beardsley, Dulac and their Contemporaries 1890-1930
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Around the turn of the century, illustration experienced a boom
period, with swathes of deliciously illustrated books and deluxe
edition annuals selling by the tens-of thousands.
Aubrey Beardsley was one of the period's most famous exponenents
and illustrators such as Edmund Dulac, Kay Nielson, Arthur Rackham,
Laurence Housman, Sydney Sime, Charles Ricketts and others were
inspired by Beardsley's work; forging new styles and approaches
following his death in 1898.
One highlight of the exhibtion was 'The Ice
Maiden' by Edmund Dulac - a haunting
illustration of a pale woman in shimmering robes walking barefoot
in a snowy, starry landscape. She is flanked by obedient polar
bears, and is curiously, gently cupping a human heart in
her hands. A striking and subtly bewitching image that
captures the innocent but dark nature of fairytale.
Decadent, fantastical and alluring, The Age of
Enchantment was very popular with vistors and critics
alike, described by The Times as
'fascinatingly eclectic, fastidiously curated and often overtly
titillating' and a 'groundbreaking dark delight' by The
Telegraph.
The exhibition was curated by Rodney
Engen.