Hans Christian Andersen, illustrated by Mary J. Newill

The Nightingale

(Napier, 1896)

Mary Newill presents an exotic interpretation of Andersen’s tale of the Chinese Emperor and his court, which reflects Victorian stereotypes of China.  She fuses Pre-Raphaelite traditions, such as flatness and detailed depiction of natural scenery, with a folk-art style typical of the Arts and Crafts movement.