The artwork, titled “Snow Queen,” is a creation by Kay Nielsen, an artist associated with the Art Nouveau movement (also referred to as Modern). This piece falls under the genre of illustration, and it embodies the distinct stylistic elements of its time.
The artwork depicts a serene and otherworldly landscape dominated by cool tones of blue and purple, evoking a sense of icy enchantment. Central to the piece are two figures, one appearing to be a man in medieval attire, and the other a translucent, ethereal female figure, suggesting a mystical or magical interaction. Towering ice formations and a single, delicately curved tree frame the figures, adding to the fantastical and dreamlike atmosphere. The scene is bordered by an ornate floral pattern, characteristic of Art Nouveau’s emphasis on intricate and decorative design. The meticulous attention to detail and the harmonious blending of natural elements with fantastical imagery exemplify Nielsen’s exceptional skill in illustration.