The horn, at the gate of the Barbican tower, was blown with a loud twenty-trumpeter power. (1911)

Arthur Rackham's engaging illustration titled *The horn, at the gate of the Barbican tower, was blown with a loud twenty-trumpeter power* from 1911 captures the viewer's imagination with its whimsical and somewhat sinister elements. This artwork is quintessential Rackham, known for his distinctive style that often blends fantasy with darkness.In the painting, we see a grotesque creature, displaying various animal features including long horns, scale-like textures, and clawed feet. This fantastical creature is caught in the act of blowing a large, curved horn with fervor. The strained expression and effort are evident in the creature's posture and facial expression, mirroring the monumental effort of producing a sound loud enough to mimic twenty trumpeters.Notably, with its long, tattered garments fluttering and an ominous flag in one hand, the creature almost seems to be sounding an alarm or calling to unseen others at the Barbican tower, a place steeped in historical significance often associated with fortification and defense. The detailed, eerie ambiance of the scene is further enhanced by the background—a stark, minimalistic environment that leaves much to the imagination and focuses the attention squarely on the central figure.Arthur Rackham's mastery in weaving narrative, emotion, and meticulous detail into his works is exemplified in this piece, making it a captivating visual story that piques curiosity and leaves a lasting impression.