The Hermit; illustration for Oscar Wilde's 'The Teacher of Wisdom' c. 1890 - 1924

Charles Ricketts made this illustration for Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Teacher of Wisdom’ with pen and ink. I can imagine Ricketts sitting with his pen, drawing very delicately and intentionally. The drawing is so careful, with lots of detail! See the vertical lines and curves, creating a rhythmic harmony. A group of figures on the left lead our eye to the Hermit sitting meditatively. An angel seems to be descending from above towards them. I like the sparse, flowing lines, and I wonder, was Ricketts thinking about Aubrey Beardsley? The scene reminds me of Symbolist Art—artists like Odilon Redon—with its interest in dreams and inner states. It's as if Ricketts is inviting us to reflect on the meaning of wisdom and the search for truth. It makes you want to explore the philosophical depths of Wilde's story.