The artwork titled “Illustration for the Russian Fairy Story ‘White Duck’,” created by Ivan Bilibin in 1902, is a prominent piece within the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement. Executed as an illustration, it is part of Bilibin’s series on the “White Duck” fairy tale. The artwork is characterized by its intricate and ornate design, reflecting the stylistic elements typical of Art Nouveau, which often includes organic forms and elaborate patterns.
The artwork itself features a textual passage from the fairy tale alongside a small, detailed illustration beneath it. The text, written in Russian, is accompanied by decorative borders, showcasing Bilibin’s attention to detail and his ability to blend visual art with literature seamlessly. The illustration within the artwork includes an evocative scene, where the silhouettes of figures are set against a somber, yet poetic landscape. The natural elements and detailed depiction highlight the mystical and folkloric essence of the story, embodying the traditional and cultural motifs frequent in Russian fairy tales.
