Household stories from the collection of the Bros. Grimm 1922

Walter Crane made this book cover in 1922 for a collection of Grimm's fairy tales, and what strikes me first is the intricate line work that seems to build a whole world out of delicate strokes. It's like he’s thinking out loud with his pen, letting each line suggest the next. Look closely, and you’ll see how Crane uses the black and white to create depth and texture. The rooftop scene teems with characters, the chubby cherubs are great, and below, the sleeping dogs are so wonderfully languid. It's amazing how much information he packs into each tiny area, from the pots of flowers to the stone brick work. There's also a subtle contrast between the static, architectural elements and the dynamic figures that adds a gentle playfulness. This work reminds me a little of Aubrey Beardsley, especially in its decorative qualities and its use of line. Ultimately, Crane’s cover invites us into a realm where stories are built, stroke by stroke, into a rich, imaginative landscape.