They’d such very odd heads and such very odd tails. (1911)

Arthur Rackham's 1911 illustration, titled "They’d such very odd heads and such very odd tails," offers an enchanting glimpse into an ethereal underwater world, marrying elements of fantasy and mystery. This artwork, easily identified by Rackham’s signature style, features a visceral assembly of creatures that are both whimsical and unsettling.The painting’s dense, intricate imagery brings together sea creatures with delightfully exaggerated and surreal features. Fish with strange, humanlike faces and bizarre deformities are depicted in a tangled cluster that appears both chaotic and harmonious. These creatures possess an array of peculiar traits—prominent eyes, flowing tresses that mimic seaweed, and sinuous, elaborately shaped tails that underscore the title's reference to their oddity.Echoing fairy tale narratives, Rackham’s work visually narrates a story of its own. The monotone color palette augments the dreamlike quality of the scene and captures the viewer’s imagination, encouraging them to ponder the life and interactions of these intriguing underwater denizens. This piece not only showcases Rackham’s masterful line work and attention to detail but also his ability to evoke a sense of wonder and the uncanny.This illustration, perfect for those who love fantasy art, serves as a reminder of Rackham's unique contribution to the arts, particularly in defining the visual standard for illustrated fairy tales and folklore.