A hovering pixie c. 1867 - 1868

This is Paul Konewka's sketch "A Hovering Pixie". Konewka, born in 1840, was known for his silhouette illustrations, a popular art form that saw a resurgence during the Victorian era. This sketch offers us a glimpse into the world of Victorian fairy tales and folklore, which often served as a lens through which societal anxieties and desires were explored. During this era, there was a fascination with the ethereal and the supernatural, providing an escape from the rapidly industrializing world. This pixie, caught in a moment of flight, embodies a sense of freedom and otherworldliness. Konewka's decision to depict the fairy in such a dynamic pose defies traditional representations of women, which often favored passivity. Instead, he captures a sense of movement and energy, reflecting the changing roles and expectations for women. It invites us to imagine the emotional and personal dimensions of a world beyond our own.