The tree fell with a crash into the gulf (1900)

William Wallace Denslow, best known for his iconic illustrations in the original "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," extends his unique and colorful style to another whimsical piece titled "The Tree Fell with a Crash into the Gulf." This vividly illustrated painting captures a moment of both chaos and emotion through a narrative scene featuring anthropomorphic characters.In this dynamic scene, we see a large, striped tiger falling helplessly into the water, with expressions of fright and shock boldly depicted. The immediacy of the situation is enhanced by the tiger's wide, startled eyes and open mouth. Accompanying this central figure are two other small tigers, each showing similar expressions of panic as they descend rapidly.Above on the riverbank, sharply contrasted to the turmoil below, stand four characters who might be familiar to fans of Denslow's work: a lion, a scarecrow, a tin man, and a small girl holding a basket. These characters, observing from a safe distance, add a layer of narrative depth, suggesting a storyline or adventure that has led to this chaotic moment.Denslow's use of vibrant colors and bold outlines makes the characters pop against the softly colored background, engaging viewers with the immediacy of the action. The depiction of motion, particularly the falling tree trunk and the splashing water, adds a dynamic element to the composition, making the scene feel alive and active."The Tree Fell with a Crash into the Gulf" is a lively, engaging piece that showcases Denslow's talent for storytelling through art, as well as his distinctive style that has charmed audiences in children’s literature illustrations.