The artwork titled “Red Riding Hood meets old Father Wolf” is an illustration by artist Gustave Dore, produced during the Romanticism art movement. This piece is part of the collection “Tales and Stories of the Past with Morals,” which features scenes crafted to evoke moral lessons drawn from folktales and fables. Dore’s Romanticist leanings are apparent in the emotive and dramatic quality of the artwork.
In this monochromatic work, the scene unfolds with the central figure of Red Riding Hood encountering the figure of old Father Wolf in a secluded forest setting. The artwork is highly detailed, showcasing the contrast between the innocence of the young girl and the wild, untamed nature of the wolf that stands towering next to her. Red Riding Hood is depicted with a sense of cautious curiosity as she meets the gaze of the wolf while clutching her cloak. The wolf, imposing in size, leans over slightly towards her, with its detailed fur texture and dark shading adding depth to the illustration.
The background is dense with the intricate textures of woodland scenery, a hallmark of Dore’s illustrative style, creating an atmosphere that is both enchanting and foreboding. The attention to the filigree of leaves and the rough bark gives the impression of a deep and immersive forest, enhancing the dramatic encounter between the characters. The use of light and dark accentuates the focal point of the meeting, drawing the viewer’s attention to the interchange between youth and beast, and the underlying narrative tension.
Gustave Dore’s work is celebrated for its ability to convey complex stories through visual art, and this illustration is no exception. It reflects the Romantic preference for rich, expressive imagery that communicates powerful emotions and often serves as a medium for storytelling that transcends the need for words.
