The artwork titled “The child is given over to Merlin” is an illustration by Arthur Rackham, a renowned artist known for his contributions to the Art Nouveau movement, particularly in the realm of Modern art. This piece is part of the series “The Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table,” which was illustrated for Nelly Montijn-De Fouw.
In the artwork, we see an encounter between three figures in a medieval setting. To the left, there’s an elderly man leaning forward with open hands, which suggests that he is either receiving or offering something. This character, known to be Merlin based on the title, is depicted with typical wizard-like features: a long cloak, a hat, and an expressive face that conveys wisdom and anticipation.
Standing opposite Merlin are two other figures, possibly nobility based on their attire. In the arms of the central figure is a child, swaddled in ornate cloth, likely being handed over to Merlin. The body language and facial expressions of the characters suggest a moment of significance and perhaps reluctance or solemnity on the part of the characters handing over the child. Beside them, there’s a bystander, who could be a servant or another noble, also watching the exchange closely.
The scene is set against a background that includes a brick or stone wall, and trees that give the sense of an enclosed garden or courtyard, which was a common setting in medieval tales. The careful use of hatching and line work adds depth and texture to the image, creating a dramatic yet delicate visual that is characteristic of Arthur Rackham’s style. The level of detail in the clothing and foliage furthers the storytelling aspect, adding to the narrative implied by the title.