Illustration to 'Nightingale' by Hans Christian Andersen 1912

This is an illustration to 'Nightingale' by Hans Christian Andersen, made by Heorhiy Narbut sometime around the early 20th century. I wonder what it was like for Narbut to make illustrations? To give images to the story? I think he was probably sketching away, getting lost in the details of the bird perched delicately on the branch, each leaf and berry carefully placed. The black ink is so solid, anchoring the bird to its spot, while the leaves and berries offer a glimpse of softness to the illustration. You almost expect to hear the nightingale's song. See the way the little pagoda is placed near the branch? It hints at the setting of the story but also adds a whimsical touch to the scene. In a way it relates to the world that the artist has created. I’m reminded how artists are always remixing and reimagining the world through their art, adding their voice to an ongoing conversation.