She did not mind death, but she could not stand pinching. (1911)
Technique: Giclée quality print
Recommended by our customers
More about this artwork
This intriguing illustration by Arthur Rackham, titled "She did not mind death, but she could not stand pinching," offers a glimpse into Rackham's unique style and narrative approach, often characterized by a blend of whimsy and darker undertones. Created in 1911, the scene captures a moment of comic distress where a finely dressed young woman recoils from the pinch of a skeletal figure.The composition cleverly plays on the contrast between the ethereal, almost ghostly figure, dressed in armor and the lively, vibrant young woman in her voluminous gown. The setting appears to be a well-furnished room, suggesting a story set in a historical or fantastical context. The skeletal figure's menacing yet humorous demeanor as it pinches the lady adds a layer of ironic humor to the scene.Rackham’s work is renowned for its ability to evoke the fantastical with precision and a gentle nod to the absurd. This piece is no exception, blending elements of fear, humor, and the surreal. It invites viewers to ponder the story behind the image, engaging with themes of discomfort, annoyance, and the human reaction to the uncanny.
Delivery
Returns
Arthur Rackham (19 September 1867 – 6 September 1939) was an English book illustrator. He is recognised as one of the leading figures during the Golden Age of British book illustration. His work is noted for its robust pen and ink drawings, which were combined with the use of watercolour, a technique he developed due to his background as a journalistic illustrator.