The Almond Tree 1922

Walter Crane made "The Almond Tree" as an illustration, and like a lot of illustrations, it’s all about the details, the tiny marks that build up the whole image. It’s like watching someone knit, each stitch so simple, but together they make something amazing. The whole thing is rendered with such care, you can almost feel the scratch of the pen on the paper. Look at how he renders the leaves of the tree: a million tiny marks, but so full of life! And the woman, kneeling there, her hands clasped, she feels so present, doesn't she? Then there's the framing, with those little circular details in the corners. They feel so Victorian, so decorative. It reminds me a little of Aubrey Beardsley, but with a softer touch, more fairytale than decadent. Art is just one big conversation, isn’t it? Everyone riffing off each other, borrowing ideas, and making something new.